Presents an overview of social skill interventions with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and emphasizes parent training approaches, dyadic (parent-child) therapy, and treatment which directly change the child's behavior. Discusses the range of services which could be provided within the community to foster social competence in young children.…

Documents the trend toward physical fitness as well as the role of teachers and counselors in facilitating such programs. The effects of low levels of physical functioning on counselors and teachers are illustrated by two studies. Fitness programs are not only feasible but translate directly into increased effectiveness. (JAC)

The effectiveness of three teaching styles in promoting motor skill acquisition and social skill development were examined in 96 fifth-grade students. Styles B, C, and E from Mosston's "Spectrum of Teaching Styles" appeared to be beneficial in helping students learn motor skills. (CJ)

The effectiveness of using gynecology teaching associates is compared with training by gynecology residents on clinic patients for teaching the gynecologic examination. Sophomore medical students at the University of Iowa participated in the instruction and an evaluation session with a simulated patient trained to rate the students' examination…

Studied a rare condition, elective mutism in children. Results indicated (1) immature development, especially in speech; (2) high rates of behavior problems; (3) excessive shyness; (4) significantly greater incidence of lower range performance IQ; (5) family psychiatric problems; and (6) intractibility. (Author/DB)

Describes Choice Awareness, a workshop process for enriching parent-adolescent relationships. Defines Choice Awareness as a cognitive, affective, and behavioral system that goes beyond communication training and behavioral contracting. The format provides a constructive group atmosphere for in-depth relationship exploration. (JAC)

The article reviews research on training mentally retarded adults in the following community survival skills: travel training, money management, meal preparation, clothing and personal care, telephone skill, housekeeping, self-medication, leisure skills, social skills, and conversation. Results are said to indicate the value of behavioral…

A social cognitive developmental model is presented integrating a Piagetian developmental model and Flavell's processing model, to describe three aspects of development. The utility of the model was tested in two studies. The results demonstrate that it is possible to increase children's social cognitive abilities instructionally. (Author/CTM)

Argues that multicultural education can be incorporated into every aspect of early childhood education and discusses the teacher's role and some misconceptions about the nature of multicultural education. Guidelines suggested for integrating a multicultural perspective into the curriculum include enhancing self-concept and cultural identity,…

Makes a case for affective education based on the assertion that affective-interpersonal skills make possible continually expanding human productivity. (Author/JM)

Reviews 28 controlled studies of growth group outcomes to evaluate their effectiveness. Assessed outcomes in terms of self-actualization, interpersonal orientation, attitudes, personality, and behavior. Given the low frequency of enduring changes, there seems to be only scant evidence to suggest lasting positive effects due to growth groups.…

Describes microlabs as group sessions made up of structured experiences to help groups achieve specific goals. Discusses the development and use of microlab exercises to encourage self-disclosure and group cohesion in long-term group situations, and to help participants see the relationship between training and their own lives. (Author)

Used coercion theory to investigate aversive mother- child interactions. Literature indicated younger children produced higher rates of aversive interactions with their mothers. Mothers' role satisfaction varied as a function of such rates. Observation data showed mothers of aggressive children encountered higher rates of aversive interactions…

This special issue presents seven papers describing programs for children with behavioral disorders. Among topics addressed are use of role playing to foster social skills, truancy intervention, and cooperative efforts by mental health agencies and public schools. (CL)

An overview of research and evaluation developments concerning Head Start, preschool education, and day care during the past decade is provided. Possible ramifications for the future are shown from the reexamination of early education programs. (JN)