Examined depression and self-esteem in gifted and nongifted fourth and fifth graders. Gifted children did not differ on levels of self-esteem or depression from their nongifted peers. Gifted boys reported lower levels of self-esteem and more depression than gifted girls. Boys were judged to be more depressed than girls, and fifth graders to be…

This study explored institutional similarities using modelling techniques in the national university population. Measures of proximity in national datasets shed light on the dynamics of peer group construction. Factors were identified that provide the foundation for peer similarities. Structural equation modelling allowed testing of fit across…

Youth court, also called teen court, peer jury, or student court, is an alternative to the traditional juvenile justice system and school disciplinary proceedings that empower youth and communities to take an active role in addressing the early stages of youth delinquency. The program provides communities with an opportunity to ensure immediate…

This study focused on peer influences on dating, assessing the impact of peer attitudes about dating on the individual's affiliative system and examining the relationship between problem behavior and dating experiences. The study's final goal was to assess the relationship between the importance of affiliative activities and the extent of dating.…

Describes a drug unit which uses videotape interviews to: (1) motivate adolescents to develop positive attitudes toward drug abuse; (2) increase student participation in classroom activities; (3) use appropriate science exercises to further understandings; and (4) permit students to work on things of personal interest. (Author/CJ)

A study of students' group learning behavior in a laboratory course in experimental engineering at the University of New South Wales, Australia is reported. Observations of students at work and students' reports of their group activities indicate continuing group involvement in an extensive range of collaborative peer learning activities.…

Addresses the role of video games in the lives of adolescents. Considers the significance of video games both as cultural "texts" and organized social activities. Examines motivations, practical interests, and behavior of suppliers and consumers of these products. (CMG)

Trained peer leaders served as teachers and resource personnel for a high school smoking reduction clinic. Procedures for behavioral self-control were emphasized. Means of selecting and training peer leaders, programs presented at the clinic, and a summary of the results are given. (PP)

Analyzed primary-group concept, secondary-group concept, self-concept, mainstream self, and self-acceptance in relation to self-reported delinquency among (N=264) White males in urban fringe high schools. Results show dimensions of self were highly interrelated and highly related to attitudes--but explained very little self-reported delinquency.…

Describes the purposes and structure of a therapeutic group for former members of religious cults. Delineates three stages of the "Post Mind Control" syndrome: initial postdeprograming, reemergence, and integration. Suggests interventive techniques appropriate to each of these stages. (Author/RC)

Drawing on case study data from an urban school, examines the elementary school classroom as a setting for children's learning of culturally appropriate modes of informal work group behavior. Concludes that schools temper the spontaneity, solidarity, and autonomy that pupils can enjoy in their informal relations with one another. (Author/GC)

This review presents a developmental analysis of children's capacity for self-evaluation via interpersonal comparisons. It is suggested that only at age eight or nine, when several cognitive concepts are understood, do children realize that similar others provide the most useful comparison feedback. Educational implications are drawn. (Author/SJL)

Shows how to make room in the first-year composition course for unusual writings using collective research. Contains a narrative explaining how students devise their own topics and conduct their research in groups. (TB)

Addresses the problems and methods of assessing individual performance within a group project. A peer evaluation technique by Culp and Malone was implemented in which group members were asked to identify the percent contribution they and other group members made to categories such as creativity, research, writing, and organizing. Ratings were then…