In two studies, preschool children were given four tasks of two types and two levels of difficulty. It was found that generalization of compliance with instructions varied with task difficulty. (MS)

It is argued that successful therapeutic work with individuals and families in their natural environment can be greatly facilitated by the use of contracts. The steps that are essential in drawing up an effective contract are outlined. (MS)

Investigated whether stage of motivational readiness for exercise predicted adherence to an exercise intervention. Adults randomized into a trial had the exercise goal of completing or adding at least 10 miles of weekly brisk walking or jogging. Baseline exercise motivational readiness was assessed. Adherence was determined from logs. Overall, 64…

This essay addresses current attitudes toward the environment and use of the earth's resources and suggests that restoring harmony with the natural world lies in respecting the natural law observed by ancient and indigenous people. Discusses the role of environmental education programs such as the Earth Restoration Corps. (LZ)

Discusses developments in understanding smoking and smoking cessation, methodological issues, and intervention approaches over past 10 years. Reviews conceptual and empirical developments and trends within delivery contexts (self-help, work site programs, health care settings, community interventions). Identifies avenues of research. Suggest…

Examined role of self-efficacy beliefs in rehabilitation of 45 low back pain patients participating in 3-week rehabilitation program. Increments in self-efficacy beliefs during program were not associated with improved patient functioning at discharge. However, in support of theorized role of self-efficacy in behavior change, increments in…

Sixteen therapists participated in year-long manualized training program as part of Vanderbilt II study of time-limited dynamic psychotherapy. Measured changes in therapist behavior with Vanderbilt Therapeutic Strategies Scale, Vanderbilt Psychotherapy Process Scale, and interpersonal process codings using Structural Analysis of Social Behavior.…

Presents two approaches to assessing learning organizations: (1) Focus, Will, Capability, Performance System and (2) organizations as energies. Describes ways in which behavior change is measured in each approach. (SK)

Discusses human performance technology (HPT) and change strategies. Describes types of power, including personal power and position power; participative change strategies; directive change strategies; performance improvement; and examples of strategies to help change individual and organizational behavior. (LRW)

Analyzes features of impact evaluation models by Kirkpatrick, Grotelueschen, Cervero, Robinson and Robinson, and Jackson. Incorporates features into the Behaviorally Based Impact Evaluation Model, designed for evaluating continuing professional education outcomes in corporate settings. Contains 23 references. (SK)

Suggests addressing children's "conduct disorders" or "emotional disabilities" by pinpointing the specific discrepant behavior to remediate. Recommends that teachers avoid focusing on inappropriate behaviors and focus instead on desirable replacement behaviors. Offers suggestions for providing opportunities to practice new behaviors, treating…

Explains Gilbert's Behavior Engineering Model that can enable the success of novice performance engineers by prompting appropriate front-end analysis and describes a performance improvement project conducted in the customer service department at an insurance agency. Discusses task clarification, employee self-monitoring, and public posting of…

Person Focused Training is introduced as a model of service delivery for people with severe challenging behaviours. It is defined as training and supporting staff to conduct functional assessments and to design and implement positive behavioural support for specific individuals with challenging behaviours. Longitudinal outcome data are presented…

Ten individuals with profound multiple impairments were given novel tests for learning and preference with adaptive switches and leisure-oriented devices, such as audio tape players. Typically, tests for learning include a baseline or extinction component in which the adaptive switch and device are not connected as a control for incidental or…