Serious delinquent behavior may be part of a disabling and durable condition that consists of multiple antisocial and dysfunctional behaviors, often runs in families, and eludes effective short-term treatment. The socializing influence of long-term supportive family treatment is discussed as a therapeutic alternative. (Author/JW)

Presents a framework for model development that, when used, will help the student (or professor) avoid the major pitfalls associated with modeling. Includes not properly identifying the controlling factors, lack of model validation and developing a model that is incompatible with its end use. (CW)

An examination of the origin and content of general systems theory is followed by identification of the major characteristics of systems and brief discussion of use of models. Two ways of applying a systems model are identified and their appropriateness is assessed in relation to particular training circumstances. (55 references). (Author/MBR)

Several conceptions of schooling are outcome-bound: input-output models, school effectiveness models, classroom learning models, and systems theory models. Problems with each of these conceptions are identified, followed by a brief discussion of an outcome-free approach in which schools are viewed as cultural ecologies. (BW)

The 22 articles of this special issue focus on families with mentally, physically or emotionally disabled family members and discuss the importance of viewing the family as a system. Research studies and literature reviews report on family reaction, stress variables and coping techniques, placement decisions, and policy recommendations. (JAC)

A model of inservice education programs for vocational education teachers is presented that consists primarily of the following components: the research foundation; the experimental or practical foundation; the communication base; a systems approach; and a cooperative framework. (GW)

The purpose of this study was to determine the procedural knowledge brought to, and created within, a pond ecology simulation by students. Environmental Decision Making (EDM) is an ecosystems modeling tool that allows users to pose their own problems and seek satisfying solutions. Of specific interest was the performance of biology majors who had…

This study examined how campus peer culture influences the ways in which multiracial students make meaning of their racial identity, and applies Urie Bronfenbrenner's ecological model of cognitive development to analyze elements in the college environment that stimulate or inhibit identity development. Discussion of the situation of multiracial…

A management planning model developed by Furman University is described. The model is a decentralized participative approach to institutional governance that stresses decision-making based on use of appropriate research and allocation of resources based on management by objectives. (MLW)

Psychodynamic theory and family systems theories have come to represent competing orientations in the understanding of human behavior. This paper extends the quest for an integration of these perspectives. Maps ideas from one orientation onto constructs from the other. Case examples illustrate the ideas. (Author)

Reported are the results of a study to test a partial systems model of academic department performance for improved decision making and organizational developmental. A variety of outcomes, input variables, and departmental structure and process elements are examined. Comparisons with organizational effectiveness theories are made. (MSE)

Information systems are becoming more than computer systems, with new equipment and techniques combining with data processing to form a new field called information technology. The emerging discipline of systems engineering is discussed along with nine systems engineering techniques. An organization chart of an information services department is…

A case study of the enrollment management program introduced at California State University at Long Beach is discussed. A systematic approach from concept to process to outcome was developed, with every major function and activity associated with enrollment management identified and positioned in one of four functional groupings. (Author/MLW)

Presents a teaching package to bridge the gap between communication theory and its application in an organizational environment. An integrative communication model, systems theory, and the case method are combined to help prepare the student to communicate effectively in the work environment. (JMF)

This article presents a model of the individual who has "cultural expertise", and can relate with self, others, and society. The definition provides a framework wherein widely diverse approaches of the helping professions can be synthesized with cultural components and compared for their value in producing "culturally effective individuals."…