Investigated the relationship between dropping out of high school and substance use. Controlling for other important risk factors, the 1984 longitudinal survey data of people aged 19-27 indicated use of cigarettes, marijuana, and other illicit drugs increases the propensity to drop out and that the earlier the initiation into drugs the greater the…

Despite large gains in reading proficiency by minorities over the past decade, Hispanic and Black children's reading levels remain significantly lower than Whites. This article examines the effects of parent educational level and family reading behaviors on minority and nonminority children. (Author/LHW)

Describes a program at Rochester School District (Pennsylvania) that determines the needs of students with chronic attendance and tardiness problems and works with students, families, social service agencies, and alternative educational programs to resolve conflicts. Chronic offenders are identified, assessed individually, and referred to…

Examined the scope of influence exerted by occupational and educational significant others identified by 142 high school youth to determine the extent to which this influence is segmental. Data showed that the influence of most significant others was specific to either educational or occupational ambitions, suggesting that these are fairly…

Explored the relationship between job satisfaction and selected family variables that might constrain or enhance the job satisfaction of employed mothers. Family variables: workload (household and employment), family support for employment, and access to childcare were salient considerations in job satisfaction. Results suggest that job…

Discusses why an individual begins to experiment with drugs and when such activities are likely to take place. An understanding of these factors provides insight into ways to prevent drug abuse. Notes that the family may prove to be the most enduring point of prevention and intervention. (BB)

Reflects on the history of anorexia nervosa among adolescent ("fasting") girls, suggesting that its psychodynamics have changed over time. Focuses on the social and cultural processes by which anorexia nervosa became a disease. Argues for a conception of anorexia nervosa that incorporates culture as well as biomedical and psychological…

Examines the direction of effects between slow-learning children and their families in three family types: (1) learning-oriented, high residential quality; (2) achievement-oriented, low residential quality; and (3) outer-directed, with little achievement orientation, taking into consideration child variables of adjustment and adaptive behavior.…

A study of family patterns and their relationship to television-viewing and children's development clearly indicate the combined influences of parental styles and television on emerging cognitive and behavioral tendencies. Television-viewing, although potentially positive with limited use and appropriate programing, generally predicts negative…

Biographical interviews elicited information concerning personality characteristics that predispose women toward achievement-striving behavior, taking into account the effects of family, friends, and role models. The majority of women reported not fearing success, but most wondered if their achievements were worth it and at what cost. (Author/ABB)

Explores factors that can enable children reared in impoverished environments to use their conditions of adversity to succeed. Discusses essential components to development of achievement motivation, including innate potential; family ties and roots; creative manipulation of the environment; expectations; and the roles of religion, parents, and…

Examined factors college-bound high school seniors (N=848) perceived as most helpful in making career decisions. Results suggested that their families and interesting high school classes were the most helpful factors. Teachers were also rated as helpful, while counselors generally were not. (JAC)

Examines the effects of selected antecedent variables and communication processes on the consumer behavior of the elderly. Results suggest that the mass media and the family may be instrumental in reinforcing or developing traditional sex-role stereotypes among the elderly, whereas consumer education may help them filter puffery in advertisements.…

Research suggests that children should be kept at home until 8 to 12 years old, then begin attending school. Attitudes toward parents, peers, and school can be improved and children can learn more effectively when taught physically, academically, and socially at home in their early years. (PGD)

Concludes that environmental effects on IQ are relatively modest within the normal range of environments, but circumstances are very substantial. Cognitive development is influenced by direct effect on cognition and indirect effects through alterations in self-concept, aspirations, attitudes to learning and styles of interaction with other people.…