The use of extinction procedures or the discontinuation of reinforcement following a behavior targeted for reduction is often used to enhance the efficacy of behavioral interventions. Unfortunately, the application of extinction procedures is associated with several side effects that can produce potentially harmful and counterproductive outcomes.…

In more districts than ever, Response-to-Intervention programs are gaining ground, nipping learning problems in the bud and keeping more students out of unnecessary special education classes, which is the goal. RTI, a multi-tier intervention used to diagnose and address potential learning or behavioral problem early, is also increasing in…

A study of 288 students with moderate to severe mental retardation investigated the relationship between curricular activities and problem behaviors. Findings indicated a positive correlation between ratings of curricular activities (based on activities being socially functional, peer referenced, and behaviorally functional) and students'…

A review of 14 studies of students with disabilities in general education settings found moderate to strong improvement in students' performance following self-management training. Descriptive summaries for each study are provided, as well as suggestions and resources for researchers and teachers who seek to promote self-management in inclusive…

A study used a computer game to examine behavioral momentum in 10 individuals (ages 7-20) with developmental disabilities. Different rates of reinforcement were programmed in two alternating components signaled by distinctive cues. Resistance to disruption by an alternate source of reinforcement was greater in the component with the higher…

Data drawn from a qualitative study of teachers' perceptions of work stress is presented. Linkages between teacher stress and teacher performance are firmly established. Study data are discussed in terms of the Performance Adaptation Syndrome, a term used to describe the deleterious effects of prolonged work stress on instructional ability.…

A study examined protective and vulnerability factors in 214 foster children (ages 7-12). Youth and caregivers were interviewed six months following placement and six years later. Several control variables (age, ethnicity, abuse type, and behavior problems) and psychosocial predictor variables (social support and self-perception) were related to…

This policy brief describes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as involving three characteristics: inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The brief reviews the causes of ADHD, including the belief that it is primarily an inherited, neurobiological disorder. The effects of ADHD on children are discussed and may include: other…

Little agreement exists on which school expenditures and resources are most likely to improve student resources or whether resources really matter at all. This study compiles a national database of school finance information and analyzes the data to address the importance of school expenditures. Data were collected from the National Assessment of…