Draws parallels concerning the development of the self between recent psychoanalytic theory and earlier formulations found in the sociological tradition of symbolic interactionism. Suggests that a unity of understanding between the two thought systems is useful to the knowledge base of social work practice. (Author/LLL)

Researchers have recently begun to use the tools of neuroscience to examine the social psychological responses associated with race. This article serves as a review of the developing literature in this area. It advances the argument that neuroscience studies of race have the potential to shape fundamental assumptions about race, and the interplay…

Suggests sociological method of group study, SYMLOG (Systematic Multiple Level Observation of Groups), as means for bringing elements of psychoanalytic and humanistic techniques into behavior therapy. Discusses numerous applications of SYMLOG. Sees SYMLOG as useful for both individual and group behavior therapy and as a way to facilitate social…

Several models of the dying process--the Dying as Stages Model, the Death Trajectory-Phases Model, and the Personality-Repetitive Alternation Model--are reviewed and evaluated. An Interpersonal Reactions Model, based on social psychological concepts, is presented to resolve the differences in findings based on the previous models. (Author)

Describes contextualism (which assumes that action and thought are developed within relationships that then form contexts for particular actions) as third-world view beyond mechanism and organicism. Illustrates use of contextual approach in three areas of social gerontological and social psychological research--environmental relations,…

For developmental social psychology to be clinically practical, it must use categories of experience similar to categories that counselors, clinicians, and other practitioners find useful. Describes how individuals may function at different levels depending on the context in which they are expressing their understanding. (Author)

Reviews four contrasting theories bearing on the concept of the commons dilemma, which deals with conflicts of individual v group interests over time. Focuses on the threats that commons problems pose to democratic principles in community structure. Discusses alternative directions for the resolution of resource crises. (Author/GC)

Examines the following theories proposed by social psychologists to explain popular resistance to affirmative action strategies: (1) the naivete explanation; (2) the symbolic racism theory; and (3) the "realistic" group-conflict theory. Argues that social psychology ignores the public's perception of Blacks as members of a social underclass. (FMW)

Addresses common pitfalls in homogeneous scale construction in clinical and social psychology. Offers suggestions about item writing, answer scale formats, data analysis procedures, and overall scale development strategy. Emphasizes effective use of factor-analytic methods to select items for scales and to determine its proper location in…

Traces John R. P. French, Jr.'s contribution to the development of person-environment (PE) fit theory. The text examines recent extensions of PE fit theory, including the introduction of response surfaces to examine the homogeneity of effects of PE fit on indicators of mental health across all levels of person or of environment. (GLR)

Redefines the advocacy role in social work and demonstrates how a social influence typology can clarify contradictions in the social psychology literature. The typology helps the social worker match the manner in which advocacy is attempted to specific details of the situation. (Author/JAC)

Argues that philosophical, ethical analysis is needed when the moral rules relevant to a situation (such as the use of computers) are not obvious, or when several moral principles come into conflict. In this context, examines rights of ownership of computer programs, and the effects of increasing computer use on privacy and power. (Author/KH)

Suggests that social support systems offer a new avenue toward primary prevention, since social networks provide social meaning and psychological import to the term "community." Examines the nature and health protective effects of social support in the light of the historical evolution of community psychology as a discipline. (Author/AOS)

Proposes a social-psychological model of the dissolution decision in marriage based on prior theoretical formulations. Sequential in character and emphasizing the duality of the marital relationship, the model modifies and refines previous theoretical efforts, and seeks to extend their explanatory power by incorporating various principles of…

Presents Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) of persuasion (a reconceptualization of the social influence process) as alternative model of attitude change. Contends ELM unifies conflicting social psychology results and can potentially account for inconsistent research findings in counseling psychology. Provides guidelines on integrating…