Ten mentally retarded clients in a small work activity center were effectively trained to use social amenities during work-related communications. Training consisted of prework review of the rules of social amenities, frequent reminders during work by supervisors, client repetition of the reminders, and focused practice. (Author/DB)

The exploratory study examined the effectiveness of the Van Dijk method of developing language skills with four deaf-blind infants and their mothers over a two-month period. Findings indicated increased expressive/elocutionary communicative output with concomitant reduction in self-stimulatory, abusive, and tantrum-like behaviors. (DB)

The study analyzed effects of a self recording procedure upon the maintenance of appropriate eating behaviors of a moderately retarded six-year-old boy. Results suggested that this technique can maintain acceptable levels of established behaviors with a minimum of teacher intervention and a maximum of student independence. (Author/DB)

This review of recent studies on prevention of drug and alcohol abuse among adolescents analyzes components of various preventive programs including those emphasizing knowledge, attitude modification, and remediation of skill deficits to improve ability to resist peer pressures. Missing in most programs is direct manipulation of positive or…

Strategies typically used for teaching academic skills can also be used to teach disabled children to become more socially competent. They include modeling, strategic placement, correspondence training, rehearsal and practice, positive reinforcement/shaping, prompting and coaching, positive practice, and multimethod training packages. (VW)

Focuses on role of interpersonal influence as a curative factor in group psychotherapy. Emphasizes that self awareness gained through self-observation and feedback about how one is perceived and experienced by others in group, promotes change. Describes interdependent and reciprocal ways in which participants influence one another and evoke…

The effects of a combined neuromotor/behavioral approach using a microcomputer mediated teaching system on the acquisition of basic motor skills by two young children (17- and 24-months-old) with severe and multiple disabilities were examined. Increased frequency and duration of target behaviors in both training and generalizing settings were…

Studies the communication of affect between depressed mothers and their infants and its relation to infant socioemotional and cognitive development through face-to-face interaction. Findings indicate that there are correspondences between the behavior of depressed mothers and their infants. (Author/BB)

A study was conducted to determine if behavior contracting promotes learning of behavior strategies beyond what is learned in health instruction. The ability of college students to remember and apply behavioral strategies to a personal health situation was the focus of the study. (DF)

Evaluates the effects of exercise on simple cognitive performance and on psychological well-being in persons over 50 years of age. It also assesses the relationship between a set of subject variables and dropout from fitness programs. Results suggest that the beneficial effects of exercise may extend to cognitive and personality processes.…

Counseling relationships were assessed through the social influence framework. Results indicate that counselor trustworthiness and client motivation contribute to counseling outcome. (Author)

A behavior management support group involving a psychologist and other school staff uses video recordings of students to help deal with the behavior problems of pupils with severe learning disabilities. (CL)

Reviews recent studies of change in gender-stereotyped behavior or attitudes in children. Suggests factors in susceptibility to counterstereotyping attempts including: (1) developmental level, (2) relationship between sex role cognitions and behavior, (3) degree of consistency in gender-stereotyped behavior, and (4) the role of individual…

Demonstrates how high or low levels of adult structuring of activities during free play activities can induce sex-typed social behavior by preschool children. Examines the effects of naturally occurring variations in children's play on sex-typed social behaviors. (SA)

A principal shares principles and practices involved in achieving excellence in a middle school. (DCS)