An aesthetic theory of vandalism is proposed, which posits that variables accounting for the enjoyment associated with socially acceptable aesthetic experiences are similarly responsible for the pleasure associated with acts of destruction. Several studies provide support for hypotheses derived from the aesthetic theory of vandalism. (Author)

Students from three South African Universities, representing three ethnic groups, explain their perceived success or failure on a class test and rated the importance of casual attributions derived from previous studies. Important factors that emerged were as follow: (1) effort, (2) academic skills, (3) understanding. (Author/LHW)

Briefly reviews the history, for sociology graduate teaching assistants in the United States, of training for college teaching. Describes the Michigan State University program, which has evolved over a 14-year period and includes workshop goals and objectives, the agenda, and evaluations by participants. (JDH)

Describes an in-class activity which demonstrates how sexual status is inferred based on observable gender-role characteristics. This shows the way in which our culture, and not biology, shapes gender roles and their meanings. Provides background on the course and the interactionist theoretical perspective used to analyze this sociological…

Analysis of administrators' social styles is discussed according to behavior theory. The analysis can be used as a tool for research administrators to use in gaining acceptance of innovative ideas at higher administrative levels. (MSE)

Presents summaries and opposing views of six of B. F. Skinner's major tenets of behavioristic psychology. Relates conflicting positions on issues as environmental determination, problem solving techniques, cultural reinforcement, and mental processing. (ML)

This paper presents an overview of the need for theory in the field of adventure therapy. It also outlines one way of conceptualizing theories of human change as they relate to adventure therapy. The field of adventure therapy is young and has not had time to develop a coherent theoretical base. In order to contribute to the development of a…

Attachment theory and stress-coping theory provided a basis for exploring how social cognitive components of internal working models may influence choice of coping strategies in stressful interpersonal situations. A multi-ethnic, non-clinical sample of 185 young adolescents was surveyed about their attachment styles; rejection sensitivity,…

In an effort to develop stability in a community's mental health and establish a resilient and caring society, work must begin with the family itself. This paper discusses the dimensions and types of family interactions prevalent among the Malay families in Malaysia. An integration of the humanistic, systemic, and Islamic approaches form the main…

Article attempts to orient the reader to the behavioral approach and an overall perspective of the main elements that must be evaluated in preparation for formulation of a treatment program. (Author/RK)

Discusses theories, beliefs, and practices which educational literature suggests were widely accepted at one time or another during the century and the strong countertrends which changed elementary schools in a significant manner. (Author/RK)

An economic model of consumer choice is used to link the separate theories that have dealt with comparative politics, job satisfaction, and organizational mobility. The model is used to structure data taken from studies of Turkish and French elites on environmental change, organizational mobility, and satisfaction. (Author/DN)