Conducted seven-year cohort study of adolescents in two communities, one of which had school-based intervention on cardiovascular health promotion. Physical appearance was most valued characteristics of adolescents in both communities and was only value which grew in importance over time. Students in intervention community tended to retain…

Preventionists have long recognized that the transition from elementary to secondary school represents a period of uncertainty and profound change in young adolescents' lives. This paper offers a research-based primer for teachers and other preventionists. It builds upon the prevention literature that focuses on protective factors as well as the…