Gifted adults are recognized by society solely by their achievements, though the unusual developmental trajectory of the gifted creates an extraordinary experience of life at any age. The achievement orientation is now taking over gifted education and makes it difficult for the gifted to understand and honor the qualities of mind that make them…

Reviews research that examines the role of sexual orientation on human development, and introduces the articles in this special issue. Argues that research on sexual orientation and human development has the potential to make important contributions to both the theory and practice of developmental psychology. (MDM)

Examined hormonal influences on activity and playmate preferences in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) age 2.5 to 12 years and their relatives. Found that girls with CAH preferred boys' toys and activities, whereas boys with CAH did not differ significantly from controls. Activity and playmate preferences were not related. (MDM)

Reviews research examining the predictive aspects of childhood sex-typed behavior for sexual orientation. Prospective studies suggest that childhood cross-typed behavior is strongly predictive of adult homosexual orientation for men, whereas retrospective studies are useful in determining how many homosexual individuals displayed cross-sex…

Examined the sexual orientation of 82 adult sons of 55 gay men. Found that more than 90% of the sons whose sexual orientation could be rated were heterosexual. Gay and heterosexual sons did not differ on potentially relevant variables such as length of time they had lived with their fathers. (MDM)

Studied effects on nutritional supplementation, with or without psychosocial stimulation, on the development and growth of 129 stunted children compared with 32 nonstunted children. Found that after six months, initially low activity levels of stunted children matched those of nonstunted children, regardless of treatment. Supplementation improved…

Native American storytelling contributes to maintenance of Native cultures; development of individual identities rooted in awareness of family, community, heritage, and land; and the flourishing of contemporary Native American fiction. Today, stories are transmitted by oral tradition and the writer's craft. Includes author's recollections of…

Describes an encounter with children in an at-risk preschool program. Concludes from this experience that one of the most significant lessons children begin to learn at this early age is about their potential as human beings. Suggests that in this context, early childhood educators have a responsibility to encourage the full development of all…

To be "re-wildered" is to regard animals and plants as our friends and recognize the vital role of nature and wildlife in human learning and development. The role of outdoor educators should be to introduce children to their nature friends, to teach children to become naturalists, and to encourage children to develop a lifelong…

Informal outdoor education refers to the use of voluntary outdoor activities and experiences to promote personal growth and mutual aid among the clients of youth programs and other human services agencies. Discusses the unique benefits of outdoor education, client recruitment through outreach, links with home, and the aim of increasing client…

The connections between college student self-evaluation and student development are examined, and it is proposed that such self-evaluation may actively encourage specific aspects of cognitive, psychological, and social development and help the student integrate the experience. (MSE)

Discusses technological change and reviews recent research on or forecasts about how computer-based technologies affect the environments in which the individual functions. Topics addressed include the individual's need for social experience; influences on the individual's work life; and citizenship, including control over information and…

Discusses the effects of mastery learning and criterion-referenced grading schemes on student memory and motivation to succeed. Indicates that such programs are effective in college level developmental education programs. Provides suggestions for establishing criterion-referenced grading schemes, including several variants of mastery grading…

The Universite de Montreal offers programs of cultural enrichment and personal development to the community. Les Belles Soirees are very successful as outreach and public relations vehicles; they provide continuing education for professionals and serve faculty as a testing ground for new ideas. (SK)

Individual differences and the late development of exceptional ability in some individuals are considered. The late development of some great achievers is mentioned, and areas of development to emphasize in young students are noted. Ways to enhance learning and match education to needs are considered, with attention to the United Kingdom'…