Hyperactivity refers to a constellation of symptoms, any combination of which may be present in a given child, and also to a variety of factors, such as: impulsiveness, distractability, irritability, explosiveness, immaturity, underachievement (despite normal intelligence), and visual-motor dysfunction. Preventive measures must take into account…

Although descriptive and etiological approaches to psychopathology have made notable advances, they seem to have reached a plateau. After reviewing the six approaches to etiology that now preempt the field--ecological, developmental, learning, genetic, internal environment, and neurophysiological models--a second-order model, vulnerability, is…

Information is presented on a number of tests used in genetic counseling (e.g., genetic evaluation, chromosome evaluation, consideration of multifactorial conditions, prenatal testing, and chorionic villus sampling) which help parents with one disabled child make family planning decisions. (CB)

Discusses a single pattern formation mechanism that could underlie the wide variety of animal coat markings found in nature. Presents the results of a mathematical model for how these patterns may be generated in the course of embryonic development. (CW)

Describes the increasing prevalence of anorexia nervosa and bulimia in many industrialized societies, and their association with significant morbidity and mortality. Discusses the genetic risks for the development of anorexia nervosa, and treatment strategies. Of these, pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, particularly those incorporating…

Retrospective longitudinal data on 21 boys with the fragile X syndrome were analyzed. Results indicated that 13 of the boys showed a significant decline in intelligence quotient at retest, suggesting that while young boys with this syndrome may be only mildly retarded, adults are usually moderately to severely retarded. (Author/DB)

Suggests a new experiment to study the genetic material of eukaryotes. It is based on the rapid growth and interest of the research on chromatin. (TW)

Discusses the following in relation to their predictability to future drug abuse in youth: (1) susceptibility of children of chemically dependent parents; (2) genetic transmutation; (3) family structure and management; (4) socialization; and (5) cognitive family characteristics. (Author/LHW)

An interactive computer program in microbial genetics is described. The simulation allows students to work at their own pace and develop understanding of microbial techniques as they choose donor bacterial strains, specify selective media, and interact with demonstration experiments. Sample questions and outputs are included. (DH)

Describes a microcomputer program (written for the Apple II+) which can serve as a lecture demonstration aid in explaining genetic transcription and translation. The program provides unemotional information on student errors, thus serving as a review drill to supplement the classroom. Student participation and instructor options are discussed. (DH)

Three high school biology textbooks were analyzed to determine possible sources of misconceptions and related learning problems associated with genetics. Misconceptions were examined in these categories: conceptual organization; conceptual relations; use of terminology; and mathematical elements. Implications for instruction related to each…

Offers perspectives on natural selection and the phenomenon of altruism. Presents evidence for and against the theories that evolution acts essentially on genes, on individuals, on kin, or on larger groups. (ML)

Investigated common belief patterns secondary school students (N=84) have about inheritance, noting the most prevalent misconceptions about genetics which occur at different age levels. Implications based on findings and suggestions for teaching lower secondary courses are included. (ML)

The advantages of DNA hybridization procedures for classroom and clinical use can now be realized by the recent development of nonradioactive DNA labeling/detection procedures. These methods (which are described) can replace the use of isotopes in standard DNA hybridization procedures. (JN)

The educational design of a project option in an Open University course on evolution is described. Also described is the simulation which models the genetic and evolutionary consequences of two populations of a species of flowering plant coming together after a period of genetic isolation. (Author/JN)