Examines "social norms" marketing, an effort by several colleges and universities to encourage healthy student behaviors by countering perceptions of unhealthy "cool" behaviors and stressing the positive behaviors of "most" students. Examples of posters and other marketing strategies are from Virginia Commonwealth University, Gustavus Adolphus…

Tests the premise of peer cluster theory as it applies to individual alcohol use, and makes a comparative analysis between its ability to explain alcohol use and marijuana use among college students (N=1312). Results of the causal models show some support for peer cluster theory. Discusses the study's limitations and implications. (Author/MKA)

Examines the prevalence and types of substance use in inner-city and rural eight- to twelve-year-olds (N=29) and the relationships between child substance use, self esteem, peer substance use, and family climate. Personal drug use and peer drug use were present in both groups. Inner-city children reported more alcohol and marijuana use, while…

A study investigated ability-related differences in planning skills, as well as the performance impact of working with peers. Fifty preschool-aged children did not differ in planning skills on the basis of cognitive ability. High-ability preschoolers performed equally well when working alone or with a peer of same or less ability. (Contains…

Peer mediation is one of hundreds of programs schools are using to enhance security or prevent violence. The Winning Against Violent Environments (WAVE) conflict-resolution program in Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the oldest in the country. Lists seven sources of information. (MLF)

Reports on students (N=40) who were confronted with the choice of riding with a driver who appeared intoxicated. Results show that participants' consistently chose to enter the car in all conditions except when the peer refused. The condition of the driver had no effect on participants' reported concern. (EMK)

A fellowship was established to facilitate the ability of a foreign professor to research issues of ijime (bullying) and its association with suicide among Japanese students. A summary is presented of the findings on prevalence and related issues. Differences in behaviors at elementary and secondary schools educational levels are discussed. (JDM)

The literature suggests that adolescent peer group programs have produced positive academic and rehabilitative environments as well as environments that help reduce aggressive behaviors in group-living situations. This article suggests elements to facilitate a peer group approach to cognitive problem-solving development in school and group living…

Examined data from adolescents who had completed the 1989 Teenage Attitudes and Practices Survey and who were re-interviewed in 1993 to determine social and environmental factors that influenced their smoking progression. Smoking behavior of best friends and smoking beliefs were consistent and significant factors in predicting progression from…

This article examines the potential impact of adolescent social physique anxiety on behavior and physical activity settings. Offers that an awareness and consideration of the self-presentational sensitivities that adolescents may experience in physical activity settings provide important avenues for understanding and addressing certain types of…

Interviews with 30 extremely overweight nine to ten year old children in the United Kingdom offer perspectives on the challenges they face. Schools can make positive contributions by fostering climates of mutual respect and helping these children develop a positive outlook and sense of self-worth. (Author/MKA)

A four-year study of children (N=306) utilized latent growth curve modeling to examine the quality of parenting as a mediator of the effect of childhood antisocial behavior on adolescent delinquency and friendship choices. No direct association was found between oppositional/defiant behavior during childhood and a trajectory of increasing…

Considers what constitutes learning to write and how children develop the ability. Explores (1) learning from peers; (2) learning from the teacher; and (3) learning about the functions of text. (PA)

Examines the function of substance use as an impression management tactic. Introductory psychology students (n=377) responded to a survey instrument measuring self-monitoring, perceived success in impression management, interaction anxiety, and self-esteem. Results suggest that alcohol use may serve an impression management function. (JPS)

Tests explanatory power of a sociocultural model in predicting bulimic symptomatology in a sample of college women (N=141). High scores on the Bulimia Test were negatively correlated with scores on the cohesion subscale of the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale. Pressures to diet from family and friends were also found to be…