Examines extent to which second- and fifth-graders use social comparison information to evaluate themselves. Results indicate that fifth-, but not second-graders, made appropriate evaluations of their abilities on the basis of variations in relative performance and compensated for time differences. (Author/BE)

Peer competence in preschool children in two classes was assessed via (a) teacher rankings of social competence, (b) peer sociometrics, and behavioral measures of (c) social participation, and others. Affective expression and social behavior were temporally stable and consistent across contexts for both classes; however, patterns of…

Two explanations for the effect of ability groups on student achievement are discussed. One stresses the importance of peer groups, the other differential instruction. Little evidence was found that achievement differentials in elementary school grouping systems arise from either peer influence or from differential instruction. (Author/IS)

Examines "steps," a genre of Black street rhymes that demonstrate language competencies of child performers, not recognized as competencies in the school context. The social interpretations of what language does and what language means in these Black children's worlds are also explored. (CMG)

The present study evaluated the relative effectiveness of two group counseling programs, one using primarily behavioral rehearsal and contingency contracting and the other using behavioral discussion. Results indicate improvement at postreatment and follow-up periods for both conditions, with the behavioral role-play test showing significant gains…

Since 1995, the National Youth Gang Center (NYGC) has surveyed law enforcement agencies across the nation about youth gang activity. Because tribal police departments were not included in earlier surveys, however, youth gang activities in Indian country have been largely absent from survey findings. This Bulletin describes the nature and makeup…

This document contains presentation slides from a study on antisocial male youth. The study sought to identify an antisocial taxon, and to demonstrate that taxon membership would possess external validity and predict antisocial behavior correlates (low school achievement, poor family relations, and internalizing problems). The results revealed 9…

Recent reports have shown higher rates of substance use among American Indians or Alaska Natives compared with persons from other racial ethnic groups. Among American Indian or Alaska Native youths aged 12 to 17, the rates of past month cigarette use, binge drinking, and illicit drug use were higher than those from other racial ethnic groups.…

Explores a neglected area of reference group theory and research: the relationship between assimilation processes and comparative reference group behavior; data were obtained by means of anonymous questionnaires administered to a relatively homogeneous group of Chinese American high school and college students living in Boston. (Author/JM)

Teachers are responsible for pupil progress-when they do make progress. Author asks who is responsible when they do not progress and offers some suggestions. (Author/RK)

Demonstrates that schools and other social institutions existing in inner city neighborhoods encounter a level of difficulty which even at its lowest point is sufficient to prevent them from operating successfully. (JM)

In considering ways to help new students through periods of crisis or adjustment to the college environment, the professional personnel staff at Harrisburg Area Community College attempted to provide help to students through the services of student peer counselors. The selection and training of counselors and program operation are described.…

Subjects of this study were 120 first and second grade children at three elementary schools in a middle-sized eastern city. The sample included approximately equal numbers of children by race, grade, sex, and school. (JM)