This paper examines the relation of cognitive and developmental-contextual variables to alcohol use in adolescence and early adulthood in an attempt to increase the understanding of alcohol use during this age period. Components for each of the rational decision making theories, specifically attitude, subjective norm, and self-efficacy, were…

Based on findings of the Home-School Study of Language and Literacy Development, this book examines the relationship between early parent-child and teacher-child interactions and children's kindergarten language and literacy skills. Participating in the study were more than 70 young children from diverse backgrounds whose home and school…

This paper presents the results of the Science Parent, Activities, and Literature (Science PALs) project. This project aims to promote parent involvement in children's hands-on science education by using take-home, literature-based inquiry, problem solving, and design activities that connect school and home. Parents are the most effective source…

The effects of college education on the family are discussed, and outcomes are revealed through controlled data. Impacts include: narrowing differences between sexes, selection of marriage partners, delay in marriage, reduction in divorce rate and birth rate, increased time and money devoted to children, increased achievement of children, etc.…

Argues that newborns have two major childhood tasks: (1) become independent individuals; and (2) establish connections with others. Notes that parents generally focus on one task over the other and that choice is cultural. Describes both parenting styles and their implications for children and for staff of child care facilities charged with their…

Interviews with 43 Mexican American 4th- and 5th-grade students found that student beliefs about their ethnicity influenced perceptions of their social and behavioral competence, self-worth, and attitudes toward school, but were not related to their level of academic achievement. Discusses the relationship between parents' and childrens' beliefs…

Discusses reasons childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions and the numerous health problems that can result. Suggests parents incorporate physical activity into their family's lifestyle; advocate for daily outdoor recess at school; provide healthful meals; respect their child's appetite; not use food for comfort or as reward; and limit…

Profiles a Puerto Rican family who participated in a cross-cultural ethnographic study of family influence on children's school achievement. This low-income, single-parent household reflects broader Puerto Rican cultural values, including the influence of the extended family, in its support for school achievement. (SLD)

Reports on a survey involving 700 students and 300 parents in Volgodonsk, Russia. Itemizes types of leisure activities and hours per week of leisure time enjoyed by students and examines amount of organized leisure. Notes that television viewing consumed much of students' leisure time. Underscores parents' critical influence in determining student…

Interviews Turkish adolescents who have graduated from the West German education system to reconstruct problems faced by children of Turkish immigrants in West Germany as they confront a modern education system that clashes with traditional home environments. Argues that, the more independent students become to complete school, the more conflict…

Motivational aspects of seventh graders' and ninth graders' decisions to adopt or reject educational goals advocated by parents are studied using 988 adolescents, both black and white, for whom questionnaire and achievement test data are available. Both social structure and the interpersonal environment appear to influence adolescent inclinations…

Claims that modernization in Singapore has had little effect on the Chinese concept of filial piety, a key factor in moral development. Argues that social change and modernization are challenging this firmly held tenet. Focuses on studies of student attitudes toward filial piety and moral values. Analyzes values and beliefs of Chinese, Malay, and…

Assesses the creative writing of 23 black seventh graders enrolled in a weekend science enrichment program to determine their thematic choice, self-expression, career interest, racial/gender identity, and evidence of parental influence and expectations. Analysis revealed few examples of racial or gender issues, but many expressed keen interest in…

Utilizes evidence from the 1860 federal census to determine rates of school attendance in Chicago (Illinois). Employs multivariate statistical techniques to establish the correlates of those rates. Considers the impact of the Irish immigration and the role of the Catholic Church. Includes eight tables of statistical data. (MJP)

Presents the results of two forgiveness education programs on college students who judged themselves parentally love-deprived. The longer program, a six-day workshop using a more developed therapeutic regimen, proved the most successful. Includes a discussion of initial screening techniques and workshop procedures. (MJP)