Using learning theories of Dewey, Wenger, and others, six elements of effective change for improving physicians' practice are interpreted: (1) complex reality of clinical practice; (2) attention to the designated change; (3) diagnostic analysis of target group and setting; (4) mix of actions to address needs and barriers; (5) action plan; and (6)…

Examines several basic hypnotherapeutic techniques (rapport building, problem assessment, resistance management, and behavior change) based on Milton H. Erickson's hypnotherapeutic principles that can be translated into the general framework of counseling. (Author/CM)

Investigated behavioral adjustment of 45 children with mild, moderate, and severe closed head injuries. Behavior scales were completed by parent at time of injury and again 6 and 12 months postinjury. Severe head injury was associated with declines in adaptive functioning; scores for children with mild and moderate injuries neither differed nor…

Assessed changes in bulimia in female college students (N=44) and in relation between bulimia and interpersonal relationships over time. Found (1) stable symptomology for normals and bulimics; (2) strong negative correlations between bulimia measures and interpersonal relationships with men; and (3) improvement in symptomology and relationships…

By using behavior contracts in detention group sessions, a suburban California high school reduced the number of repeat offenders. In groups of five, students discussed why they had been assigned to detention; and leaders led brainstorming sessions to discover alternative behaviors and helped students select the best alternative for a behavior…

Describes framework for organizational change based on propositions that change must be measurable and observable; organizational change requires individual change; and individual change requires learning and motivation to apply learning. Two models explained: a matrix indicating degrees of acceptance of problem and solution and continuum relating…

The study assessed the effects of redesigning the classroom physical environment to minimize stimulation on the occurrence of self-stimulation, on-task behavior, inappropriate behavior, and inactivity with 3 autistic males (16, 16, and 26 years old). Self-stimulation and inactivity decreased and on-task behavior increased. (Author/DB)

Documented health hazards associated with Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS), especially for children, justify school smoking bans. Acknowledging that enforcement may be difficult, this article suggests several implementation strategies; stressing health benefits and positive steps to help smokers quit. (IAH)

Results of a study of 84 participants in a work site health promotion program support the hypothesis that one individual attempting to change health behavior may be positively influenced by significant others during the course of the change process. (JOW)

Behavioral and physiological assessments of 41 seven-and-one-half-year-old children who had been selected to be inhibited or uninhibited at 21 months and observed again at four and five-and-one-half years revealed that each of the two original behavioral profiles predicted theoretically reasonable derivatives. Shy children remained shy, while…

The double-blind and placebo controlled study with 45 autistic children (ages 2-7) found that the drug, haloperidol, showed powerful therapeutic effects in reducing behavioral symptoms when administered for 4 weeks at doses raging from 0.25 to 4.0 milligrams/day. Learning effects were not found. (Author/DB)

Evaluated special unit for care of patients with Alzheimer's disease or related disorders. Results showed in the unit, in which reduced stimulation was emphasized, patient weight loss was curtailed, patient agitation was diminished, restraint use was reduced, and wandering was no longer a concern. Found family members to be satisfied with care.…

Discusses a variety of alternative viewpoints about humor and presents some theories about the way humor works. Also addresses the role of humor in education and how it may affect the learning process. Discusses humor as a therapy and as an intervention used to change behavior in children and young adults. (Author/KW)

This study investigated the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral training in reducing angry behavior and aggression among three fourth-grade students in a multicategory resource room. Results indicated that students were able to learn the strategy and reduce undesirable behavior, maintaining decreased levels of anger and aggression over time.…

Many agencies provide parent training to groups for whom spanking as a response to timeout escape is not an option. An alternative was developed, the "two-chair hold" technique, which showed some success in decreasing timeout escape and improving overall behavior. Discusses clinical issues regarding use of this technique. (LKS)