This study compared 136 second, third, and fourth graders considered to be at high, moderate, and low risk of behavior disorders on several variables. The Critical Events Index was used; primary differences among the groups were on indicators of social competence and externalizing behaviors. (CR)

Describes the results of a pilot study to examine the attitudes of university students toward the use of computer-mediated communication in their French conversation and composition course. Results indicate that both introvert and extrovert personality types generally perceive the use of a local area network as a beneficial experience. (15…

Discusses how the behavior of Montessori professionals provides a model for the young children with whom they interact. Asserts that the most critical factor in creating an environment for young children is the attitudes of the adult working with them. Discusses the importance of transition periods and highlights toileting issues during…

This article discusses resiliency behaviors and characteristics that can be nurtured within a family, school, or agency. These include practicing unconditional positive acceptance; establishing close, supportive relationships; communicating realistic standards; establishing clear boundaries; using a low-criticism style of interaction; focusing on…

The relationship between students' gender, personality traits, predicted first-year grades, and quality of effort put forth in academic and personal/social activities with academic achievement and critical thinking was examined. Results show that some personality traits influence the quality of effort expended with academic and personal/social…

In response to a paper on risk and resilience models in learning disabilities research, this article supports the original author's clarification of conceptual inconsistencies and emphasizes two mediating factors within the third wave of resilience research: the critical role of emotions and the importance of reciprocity in relations with both…

Examines reasons why, in spite of high rates of poverty, drug use, and mortality, some Native American students thrive--a survival mechanism that scholars have named cultural resilience. Reports that the Family Education Model, developed at tribal colleges, aims to include families in campus events and reduce negative impacts of family…

Offers resources for the study of cultural resilience. This term, used in American Indian culture theory, suggests that traditional culture can help to overcome oppression, abuse, poverty, and other social ills. Offers annotated reference to 19 books, articles, Internet sites, and other publications. (NB)

In this study, 11 parents shared their beliefs that emotional intelligence and character play critical roles in the social and emotional development of their children with disabilities. Although the parents agree academic performance is important, they also want their children to develop moral and interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. (Contains…

This study investigated the relationship between temperament and cognitive modifiability with 92 academically successful but disadvantaged Black South African adolescents. The Task Orientation and Personal-Social Flexibility temperament dimensions were directly related to learning, academic performance, and cognitive change. (Author/DB)

Discusses the following factors influencing learning: (1) environment; (2) emotional makeup; (3) persistence; (4) timing of learning; (5) teaching method; (6) cognitive style; (7) food intake; and (8) psychological factors, including the difference between analytical and global thinking. Discusses how to get a sense of one's personal learning…

Two elementary teachers rated 91 learning-disabled students (56 mainstreamed and 35 in self-contained classes) using the Weller-Strawser Scales of Adaptive Behavior. Results indicated that personality variables and problem behavior were related to teachers' perceptions of the ability of learning-disabled students to adapt to the classroom.…

Effects of loss of a parent--assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory and other measures--were measured using 34 female and 16 male adolescents. High levels of informal social support, good relations with the surviving parent prior to the loss, balanced personality, and the presence of religious beliefs influenced healthy adaptation. (SLD)

The Client Interaction Scale is a 12-item assessment tool for measuring client integration into the client-to-client interactive milieu in community support programs for persons with chronic mental illness. Results from administration of the scale to 95 clients indicate that the scale shows excellent inter-item reliability. (TJH)

Professors--obsessed with being perfect, eager to criticize, disillusioned after years of sacrifice in graduate school--may be making themselves emotionally ill. Something in the academic environment contributes to the personality profile that David F. Machell has developed. (MLW)