A diabetes-management model is presented, which includes an attitudinal element and depicts relationships among causal elements. LISREL-VI was used to analyze data from 115 Type-I and 105 Type-II patients. The data did not closely fit the model. Results support the importance of the personal meaning of diabetes. (TJH)

Research for biological-genetic markers of alcoholism is discussed in context of a multifactorial, heterogeneous, developmental model. Suggested that strategies used in linkage and association studies will require modification. Also suggested several extant associations of genetic markers represent true secondary interactive phenomena that alter…

Recent studies show the neuropsychopharmacologic basis of alcoholism. Studies involving the serotonergic and opioidergic neurotransmitter systems have shown consistent results. Concurrent nosologic developments have led to identification of subtypes of alcoholism. This article reviews literature in these various areas in an effort to enhance…

Four general criteria are proposed for the choice of a metrical solution for a causal effect: (1) compatibility with the effect; (2) ease of communication; (3) lack of measurement error bias; and (4) stability across subjects and situations. These criteria are illustrated for randomized and nonrandomized designs. (SLD)

In most cases, questions of cause and effect cannot be answered by social science methods. However, it is argued that evaluation should not be freed from dealing with missing causal links. It is possible to predict whether a causal question is likely to be measured or assessed. (SLD)

A group of 149 adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse was tested using a causal model that identifies relationships among sexual abuse situation characteristics, the accomplishment of cognitive coping tasks, and long-term effects. Results indicated the model did not fit the data. A revised model is proposed and examined. (JBJ)

This document describes the construction/simulation software called Stella which can be used in the investigation of dynamic causal models. Topics considered are its built-in perspective of system dynamics and capabilities, its potential drawbacks, and its cognitive implications for educational applications. (JJK)

Contrasts modeling methods in control theory to the methods of statistical generalizations in empirical studies of human or animal behavior. Presents a computer simulation that predicts behavior based on variables (effort and rewards) determined by the invariable (desired reward). Argues that control theory methods better reflect relationships to…

Explores the relationship between student achievement and degree of concentration in educational markets. Administrators facing increased competition for students and their associated subsidies might be expected to behave differently than those in noncompetitive situations. This paper shows that increases in degree of market concentration lead to…

Introduces an issue on the causes, consequences, and social response to homelessness, with contributions by scholars in anthropology, history, medicine, sociology, economics, public administration, law, and psychology. Much attention has been given to the problems of homeless individuals; this issue attempts a comprehensive overview of the…

An author of a paper (EC 602 060) that presents two causal models of learning disabilities comments on his interest in the research, how the research design developed, limitations of the research, and the need for replication with other disability groups. (JDD)

Findings suggest that academic achievement is enhanced by student participation in extracurricular activities and raise questions about the rationale behind rules excluding academically marginal students from participation in extracurricular and cocurricular activities. (Author/IAH)

Nonlinear relationships and latent variable assumptions can lead to serious specification errors in structural models. A quadratic relationship, described by a linear structural model with a latent variable, is shown to have less predictive validity than a simple manifest variable regression model. Advocates the use of simpler preliminary…

Assessed ability of three models of adolescent substance abuse--deviance-prone, affect regulation, and normative development models--to predict the substance abuse of a high-risk homeless adolescent sample with high rates of deviance, depression, and substance abuse. Found support for the deviance-prone model, with delinquency but not aggressive…

Examines the biological factors underlying autism, focusing on research in four areas: (1) neurological abnormalities; (2) biochemical abnormalities; (3) genetic problems; and (4) problems during pregnancy or birth. Maintains that autism is a heterogeneous disorder and that there is no unified model that explains its etiology. (Author/KB)