Tested the malleability of two personality measures among recently widowed older adults in self-help support groups. Findings support the differentiation between the measures. The trait locus of control remained stable but the group intervention had a direct positive effect, reducing depression for those in the self-help support groups. (RJM)

This study tested the reliability and factorial validity of the Purposes for Engaging in Physical Activity Scale (PEPAS). The instrument is designed to measure motivational factors for the purpose of curricular decision making and curriculum research. (JD)

Compared 135 participants in the Forum, large group awareness training intervention, and 73 comparable peer-nominated controls. Subjects completed detailed questionnaires 4-6 weeks pre- and posttraining and again 18 months later. Short-term outcome analyses revealed that only perceived control was affected by Forum participation; no long-term…

The perceptions of parents and teachers of 24 children with learning disabilities regarding their children's or students' locus of control (LC) orientation were compared to the LC orientation held by the children themselves. While no significant differences were found between parents and children, teachers perceived students as more internally…

Results are reported from a study in which Cognitive Behavior Modification (CBM) was used successfully to modify the behavior of students (N=55) with mild behavior problems. This method teaches individuals to reinforce or rebuke themselves for their own behavior. Also outlined are steps in implementing a CBM program. (IAH)

Analyzed the development of control orientation in 127 adolescents of 11-13 years and the relation between control orientation and mothers' child rearing practices. Results showed differential relations between child rearing practices and locus of control. Perceived internality increased and chance control decreased in early adolescence. (RJC)

Explains classroom technique to demonstrate to college students that human behavior is at least partially determined by the environment, and thus can be predicted and controlled. Describes how students read one prediction which correctly anticipates usual student behavior, are given a simple request by the instructor, and then read second…

This study compared the treatment, pretest, and treatment by pretest interaction effects on reports of alcohol use, misuse, and measures of awareness of curriculum content, susceptibility to peer pressure, self-esteem, and health locus of control in the context of an elementary school alcohol misuse prevention project. (JOW)

Investigates the perceived balance of control of negative caregiving outcomes in 2 studies involving 40 undergraduates and 40 mothers in counseling at a child abuse agency. Findings indicate that low perceived control is a potentially important moderator of negative affect in response to difficult children. (RJC)

Examined influence of protege characteristics, gender composition of mentoring relationship, quality of relationship, and amount of time protege spent with mentor on career and psychosocial benefits of protege. Proteges (N=139), educators who aspired to attain administrative positions, were assigned to mentors. Results showed that protege gender,…

Motivationally distinct forms of child compliance, mutually positive affect, and maternal control were observed as correlates of internalization in 103 mother-toddler dyads. Found that children who shared positive affect with their mothers showed a high level of committed compliance and were also more internalized. Maternal "Do's" appeared more…

Examined differences between high school students who were at risk for school failure and control group of peers. Statistically significant differences were found with respect to locus of control, self-concept, and personal styles of learning. Implications focused upon approaches and suggestions regarding use of such knowledge in facilitating…

Intermediate-grade gifted students (n=139) who participated in the Future Problem Solving Program were compared to other gifted or average ability students. Participants were found to be interested in more global issues than nonparticipants and were more positive about their control over the future. (Author/JDD)

Examines a study of the effects of sociocultural change on an individual's beliefs concerning control over personal and political events. Explains that Polish students' political control beliefs significantly shifted from external sources (the government) to internal sources (the individual) after democratization of their country. Reports that…

Agrees with Callister and Dunne's observations concerning computers and teacher disempowerment. However, computers can become electronic doorways allowing people easy access to whatever they want to do. Rather than criticize teachers' attempts to use technology, we must help teachers learn by providing them with computers and training. Only then…