This meta-analytical review of seven studies examined the effectiveness of two intervention approaches--(1) behavior training strategies and (2) cognitive process strategies--to teaching social skills to learners with moderate to severe mental retardation. Although both approaches were effective, the cognitive process appeared more effective in…

Researchers studied college students' sexual behavior and the association of a comprehensive health education program with subsequent sexual risk behavior modifications. Pre- and postintervention surveys indicated the intervention created short-term reduction in sexual risk behaviors, but the reduction varied according to gender. (SM)

Issues related to the ecological assessment of students with mild to moderate disabilities are examined. The paper discusses targeting student behavior according to its context and in relation to present and future socioenvironmental demands; aspects of an ecological assessment model; and thoughts on incorporating aspects of ecological assessment…

Examines how the effects of separation and divorce on young children often result in a dramatic change in classroom behavior. Offers early childhood teachers techniques for meeting the emotional needs of children coping with separation and divorce, such as empathetic listening, classroom activities that allow children to express their feelings,…

This study of 26 deinstitutionalized and 31 institutionalized developmentally disabled New South Wales adults found that relocated subjects demonstrated a significant increase in adaptive functioning after 1 year of community living. No corresponding change was found for institutionalized subjects. Daily living skills improved the most, followed…

Discussion of information services at Clemson University libraries focuses on managerial, cost, and behavioral issues that arose during the process of developing online access to information. Extending the online catalog with commercial databases and locally generated files is described, cost and benefit tradeoffs are considered, and student and…

Three mentally retarded students (ages 9-12) who exhibited challenging behaviors to escape from academic demands and to receive social attention were taught alternative assistance-seeking and attention-getting phrases. Data indicated that the intervention reduced challenging behavior. The results transferred across settings, and were maintained 18…

Presents a model for intervention for addressing drug use and sexual permissiveness that seems to be effective and practical for use with adolescents. Describes four components of social cognitive learning theory of detrimental lifestyle change (informational, development of social and self-regulatory skills, skill enhancement through guided…

"Nature-rich mentoring" is a method aimed at changing attitudes and behavior toward the environment. In this method, a small group with members from diverse backgrounds participates in an outdoor expedition with opportunities for daily reflection and discussion. Expeditions should be planned according to participant ability to allow…

A study evaluated the emotional and behavioral adjustment of 92 parents and 56 children within three months and one year after the discovery of extrafamilial sexual abuse. Parents and children experienced clinically significant effects, both initially and at 12 months' post-disclosure. Children's self-blame and extent of traumatization predicted…

Two cases are presented in which modifications to the social attention condition were needed to identify maintaining contingencies for two young children with mental retardation and destructive behavior. The effects of two different qualities of social attention are examined, along with the effects of contingent verbal, versus contingent physical,…

The effects of a combination of attribution plus specific-task strategy training were compared to specific task training as they related to 24 African-American mothers' perceptions of their children. Mothers in the attribution plus strategy condition perceived their children to show improved behavior, ability to follow directions, and pay…

To survive a contentious, dysfunctional environment, interested school board members in a Pennsylvania community captured support from district leaders. A steering committee composed of the superintendent, assistant superintendent, and board president was formed. Establishing rules for brainstorming sessions and developing a "leadership…

The SunSafe program promoted sun protection among rural New Hampshire children in elementary schools and day-care centers using education and outreach. The program was part of a randomized, controlled trial. Evaluation involved parent and teacher feedback, caregiver interviews, student testing, and observation. Results indicated that the program…

Discussion of the increasing emphasis of school discipline and zero tolerance procedures and policies suggests there is little evidence that they have resulted in increased school safety or improved student behavior. A preventive, early response disciplinary model is suggested to increase the range of effective options for addressing violence and…