Evaluated effectiveness of posttreatment programs on weight loss maintenance. Assigned mildly and moderately obese adults (N=123) to either behavior therapy only or to behavior therapy combined with therapist-contact posttreatment maintenance programs which varied by use of social influence and/or aerobic exercise. Found all four posttreatment…

Fifteen techniques to limit or stop alcohol consumption were rated by 94 adolescents, aged 12 to 19, and their parents. Factor analysis of effectiveness ratings demonstrated consistency in appraisal of adult options for coping strategies, but significant differences in adolescent and parent views of how teenagers should cope with drinking…

Functional analyses were conducted with four individuals with profound mental retardation whose self-injurious behavior (SIB) had relapsed after successful treatment (also based on functional analysis). For three subjects, this second analysis revealed that SIB had acquired new or additional functions. Results suggest reasons other than program…

Belke and Spetch's (1994) work with pigeons on choice between reliable and unreliable reinforcement is discussed. Hypothetical applied examples address variables that influence preference for unreliable reinforcement, including signaling and its context, conditioned reinforcement, and duration of reinforcement schedules. Implications regarding…

This paper comments on the controversy surrounding the use of gentle teaching and applied behavior analysis. Strengths of gentle teaching are noted, such as its wide focus and emphasis on mutual change between client and caregiver. Behavioral interpretations are offered for behavior change reported in the use of gentle teaching procedures. (JDD)

A walking program for osteoarthritis patients promoted adoption by guided practice, reinforcement, and stimulus control; facilitated compliance by behavioral contracting; maintained behavior change through generalization and self-control strategies; and prevented relapse by realignment of normative beliefs and planned relapse techniques. (SK)

Examined role of group therapy, specifically marathon group work, as treatment of choice for drug-addicted individuals. Explored specific behavioral characteristics of drug-addicted population in interaction with specific therapeutic factors. Findings from 12 inmates who participated in group therapy supported the treatment value of the marathon…

This paper identifies and evaluates emerging developments in the behavioral pharmacotherapy of people with developmental disabilities, including such medications as the opiate antagonists, fenfluramine, beta adrenergic blockers, buspirone, antipsychotics, amantadine hydrochloride, and antilibidinal drugs. The need for more well-designed drug…

Explores reasons for lack of behavior change in response to the threat of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), focusing on psychosocial barriers to behavior change relevant to preventing the spread of AIDS. Draws from Health Belief Model to examine five variables: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity of consequences, perceived…

Assuming that educational planning is a communicative process involving the transmission of symbols to effect change, this article offers a transformative approach consolidating three basic transformations (symbols, frames of reference, and behavior). The articulation of vision, the socialization of expectations, and empowerment are conceptualized…

Investigated whether dementing adult day care clients demonstrated positive behaviors during activities with young children that they did not demonstrate during similar activities without children. Findings from 21 clients revealed that adults showed significant increases in touching and extending hands in presence of children, while also showing…

Sixteen therapists in year-long manualized training program as part of Vanderbilt II study of time-limited dynamic psychotherapy changed their interventions in line with protocol, but some unanticipated changes occurred that ran counter to intent of training, including increased negative interpersonal transactions. Found that patient difficulty…

McAteer discusses how simulations can provide rich learning environments and explains how to design behavioral simulations. MacDonald describes the use of the listening vignette in workshops on listening skills. (JOW)

Used multiple baseline design to evaluate teacher-only and conjoint parent-teacher behavioral consultation in their ability to produce cross-setting behavioral change in social initiations of four withdrawn children. Found that conjoint consultation was effective in enhancing social initiation behaviors across home and school settings, whereas…

"Voices of Youth" section presents discussion with young people in a Duluth, Minnesota, treatment facility for adolescents with alcohol and behavioral problems. Adolescents discuss when they first tried alcohol, what they had to give up because of drinking, how their behavior changed, how they decided to get help, and how helpful treatment…