Examines a statistical model in which the users of an online system continually update their estimated probability of success, and quit or continue the search according to the expected utility of each action. The implications for search strategies are discussed. (Author/EM)

Concludes that subjects with considerable prior exposure to common, nonviolent pornography preferred to watch uncommon pornography. Male nonstudents preferred it almost exclusively, as did male students to a lesser extent. Females also exhibited this consumption preference, though it was far less pronounced, especially in female students. (JD)

Presents a model of relational influence attempts (RIAs) in dating and marital couples' conversations. Provides insight into the role that tacit relational knowledge plays in shaping conversation. Links conversation analysis with relationship analysis. Supports the claim that knowledge of relational pragmatics is required to effectively evaluate…

Analyzes relationships between directly observed infant and mother behavior and infant temperament characteristics, as described in maternal ratings; separates the effects of different variance components in prediction of the observed behaviors; and explores possible interactions between infant sex and infant temperament in determining both infant…

Examines the reactions of children in grades 3-4, 7-8, and 11-12 to boys and girls whose behavior was either masculine-stereotyped or feminine-stereotyped along the dimensions of steadiness/excitability, adventurousness/timidity, and rudeness/politeness. (Author/HOD)

A study of faculty coping strategies at a large public university found that strategies fit into five categories: problem-focused, avoidance-focused, cognitive redefinition, affective regulation, and resigned acceptance. Problem-focused behaviors were the most frequently reported. (Author/MSE)

Techniques for helping students who are inconsistent in their efforts and their work are discussed. (MT)

Discusses variables which determine the strategies animals use to organize their lives. Describes advances in understanding animal behaviors. Shows how game theory has helped to explain the existence of alternative behavioral strategies and the constraints under which organizers exist. (Author/CW)

Indicates the existence of such communication dimensions as attentive, relaxed, animated, dominant, impression leaving, communicator image, and apprehension. Finds that high school students who perceived themselves as being relaxed and attentive, low on communication apprehension, and as having a positive view of their communication image also…

Predictors of cheating behavior in American and Israeli society were studied. Predictors in American society were attitudes, normative beliefs, or both together; friends and classmates were stronger influences than families. In Israeli society, normative beliefs were the significant predictors, and family norms influenced cheating behavior. (VM)

The acculturation of two ethnic groups in Oklahoma was compared. Hispanics seemed to be more assimilated than Southeast Asians. Both groups were more assimilated in their work places and residences than in friendships. Ethnic networking reduced assimilation. Biculturalism was the most satisfactory form of acculturation, followed by assimilation,…

Results indicated that the two component solution of the Behar Preschool Behavior Questionnaire had a simpler structure and was easier to intepret than the three component solution. In addition, the two component solution was found to be stable across sexes, ages, socioeconomic populations, and cultures. (PCB)

Argues that Behavior Alteration Techniques (BATs) improve students' on-task compliance which, in turn, is consistently associated with achievement. Indicates a substantial relationship between BAT use and cognitive learning on both absolute and relative measures of achievement. Shows that the teachers perceived by students as "good"…

Describes two studies of 25 molecular behavior items relevant to the domain of conversational skill. The first study finds that the behaviors themselves explained 36% of the variance in self-rated competence. The second study indicates that rater effects are identifiable, localized, and therefore, probably manageable. Discusses the use of the…

Discusses writers, readers, and the enactment of roles in society through the notion of "textual community." Considers the meaning of the term "text" in this context, the problem of reading, and some of the behavioral principles that lie behind personal and group narratives. (JD)