The research examined the peer relations of autistic children and adults. In the first study, six autistic males (ages 6-21 years) were observed over a 1-year period. Results indicated that statistically significant improvements in peer relations were not observed over the 1-year period. Subsequently the peer relations of 11 autistic persons (ages…

Positive and negative behaviors of 19 gifted preschoolers were studied, and relationships between positive (verbal and physical) behaviors and negative (verbal and physical) behaviors were examined. Ss conveyed proportionately more positive behaviors, with negative behaviors occurring at a minimal rate. A chi-square analysis indicated that Ss…

Four high-school level, severely handicapped autistic students were trained to initiate and sustain social interactions with nonhandicapped peers in a commonly shared break room at two community job sites. The generalization of social behavior to nontrained coworkers was probed in the same setting during natural break times. A multiple-baseline…

Two experiments were conducted to increase the initiations and durations of social interactions between autistic and nonhandicapped youths. Experiment 1 involved teaching two autistic youths (17-20 years old) to initiate and elaborate social interactions with three age appropriate and commonly used leisure objects; a radio, a video game, and gum.…

Briefly describes nine areas in which research on improving marriage would be helpful. (CJ)

The guide is intended for counselors, teachers, and others as a curriculum in interpersonal skills for disabled college students. Chapters are designed to engage students in active participation in the following areas: active listening, expressing ideas, expressing feelings, handling questions, starting conversations, using feedback, asserting…

Two experiments examined the ability of learning disabled versus nondisabled third to fifth grade children (N=20) to ingratiate an adult interviewer. In each experiment an equal number of disabled and nondisabled youngsters were instructed to act natural, and an equal number were instructed to "try and get the lady to like you." Naive college…

The improvement of interpersonal communication is put forth as the primary purpose of student couples' workshops. Five assumptions were made: (1) a love relationship with the opposite sex is desirable, but takes work; (2) a good relationship is based on honest, open communication; (3) intimacy in a relationship is a cyclical thing; (4)…

The purposes of this book are twofold: (1) to present valid information on interpersonal communication to the student who possesses no specialized background, and (2) to provide insights into improving one's relationships with others. An attempt is made to present opportunities for the reader to better understand his basic needs for interpersonal…

Various forms of transactional analysis that can be used to improve trainer-trainee communication are discussed. (BP)

The link between the quality of attachment in infancy and the quality of play and problem-solving behavior at age two years was examined in 48 infants. (Author/JMB)

Argues against the use of standardized tests in assessing children's social competence and maintains that the observation of certain categories of children's behavior may provide the basis for an alternative method of assessment. Nine criteria for assessment are suggested. (CM)

Some specific suggestions to improve conferencing strategies for media specialists and instructional designers are proposed. (Author)

Pilot study. Microcounseling format is base-line measurement, training, and re-interview designed for individualized training. (DAG)

Students explore the effects of a variety of teaching styles and strategies on interpersonal incidents in teaching. (DAG)