An analysis of 300 undergraduate psychology student ratings of teachers was undertaken to assess the magnitude of halo error and a variety of rater, ratee, and course characteristics. The raters' halo errors were significantly related to student effort in the course, previous experience with the instructor, and class level. (TJH)

This study empirically examined the argument that a referent climate for creative productivity would be more useful than a omnibus measure of climate for assessing the creative norms in a specific work context. Results suggested that climate for creative productivity was related to criteria of effectiveness (convergent validity). (Author/PB)

A recent survey shows that the road to an effective superintendency follows a fast track, with stops along the way for doctoral study, a brief classroom tenure, and a stint at a high-level central office job. Effective superintendents were also more involved in professional and community activities. (MLH)

Reviews current research topics relating to computer simulations in German-speaking countries that emphasize problem solving and decision making. Topics discussed include the number of independent variables; studies that focus on personality characteristics; studies that focus on situational characteristics; and suggestions for further research…

This response to Brainerd and Reyna's paper (in this issue) argues that the common resources hypothesis can be applied to a wider range of phenomena than can the output-interference hypothesis. Presents results of a dual-task experiment under bidirectional deficits. Concludes that dual-task studies do not provide critical tests of the resources…

A study of 600 children in Dutch primary schools attempted to identify early predictors of reading problems leading to grade repetition or assignment to special education in first grade. Results suggest that the possibility of early detection is very limited. (MSE)

College students (N=400) completed measures of loneliness, personal attributes, social behavior, and friendship to examine role of selected personal attributes and friendship network variables in the experience of loneliness. Found that personal attributes such as social competence and sex-role orientation were strongest predictors of loneliness…

Followed 21 premarital couples over five-year period, using microanalyses of Time 1 interaction to predict relationship stability and adjustment. Found dyadic instability to be predicted by negativity reciprocity, positive reciprocity, and level of female's interruptions. Dyadic adjustment was predicted by female's interruptions. Findings support…

Investigated the effects of biomedical and social-environmental conditions on cognitive and language development in children toddlers. Hypothesized a strong effect of biomedical factors in first two years and a strong environmental influence at three years. Used analysis approach to estimate variables assumed to underlie measurement data. Results…

The social psychological constructs postulated by Garner, Clement et al. are integrated into a proposed new framework of second/foreign language (L2) learning motivation. The proposed model comprises three levels: language, learner, and learning situation. Practical examples for motivating L2 learners are presented. (55 references) (LB)

Study assessed compliance and internalization for 99 preschoolers previously studied as toddlers. Compliance and internalization were assessed in multiple observational contexts using maternal reports. Found that committed and situational compliance had distinct developmental trajectories, and only committed compliance was associated with…

What is meant by principal burnout is explored, and predictors of burnout identified in the research literature are examined. How school district personnel can assist in alleviating and preventing burnout is discussed. Recommendations center on recognition of stress, support systems, training, and enhancement of professional growth opportunities.…

Presents the results of multiple regression analysis, test-retest analysis, reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis of the Computer Attitude Scale in order to assess the instrument's predictive ability, construct validity, and reliability. Findings indicate acceptable characteristics, including stability…

Examined how obligation, reciprocity, and quality of personal relationships affect whether siblings (n=108) provide social support to seriously mentally ill (n=85). Reciprocity was important predictor: more help respondent siblings received from ill siblings, more willingness to help they showed in return. Availability of parental and other…

Examined 28 preschoolers' affective and behavioral responses to 3 potentially problematic peer situations. Results supported a model of social competence which maintains that expressed emotions and understanding of emotions influence social cognition about affective and behavioral aspects of developmentally important peer situations. Social…