All aspects of adolescent sexuality may be viewed as primarily sexual. The primary fact about adolescence is that the young person becomes capable of reproduction. Biological changes interact with psychological ones; the cognitive, motivational, social and emotional aspects are all directed toward becoming a sexual human being. In adolescence,…

This symposium introduction outlines the first phase of an investigation of the mother-father-infant triad as an interactive system, influencing both parent attitudes and behaviors and child development. The focus of the research was on the early determinants of parental behavior. Subjects were 67 middle class, white parents and their first-born…

This paper discusses the analyses of antecedent correlates of the behavior of 60 infants as measured by the Brazelton Neonatal Assessment Scale on the third day after birth. The data include two sets of antecedent variables: maternal adaptation to pregnancy as reported in prenatal interviews and measured describing the conditions of labor and…

Sigmund Koch has suggested that psychology is not and cannot be a coherent science in terms of the philosophy and methods of the physical sciences and that the term science cannot be properly applied to psychology, esthetics, creativity, or the domains of the humanities. Starting from this premise, the present author asks whether the research…

The Educational Followup Study, a longitudinal investigation, is described. Concerned with at least 30,000 of the 50,000 children born into the Collaborative Perinatal Research Project, the study will determine pregnancy, birth, and infancy events likely to lead to educational and behavioral dysfunctions. Procedures to be used are reviewed. (JD)

Today all 50 states and Puerto Rico have laws relating to the employment of women; however, the standards established vary widely. This report examines employment legislation in regard to: (1) minimum wage, (2) overtime compensation, (3) hours of work, (4) equal pay, (5) fair employment practices, (6) industrial homework, (7) employment before and…

The current status of federal law in the area of sex discrimination based on pregnancy is examined. Supreme Court decisions, including General Electric vs Gilbert and Nashville Gas Co. vs Satty, are analyzed, and relevant state laws and proposed federal legislation are discussed. (JMD)

The Gynecology Clinic, Wilce Health Center, Ohio State University, is putting into operation a comprehensive family planning service program that includes (1) patient education, (2) medical care, (3) pregnancy counseling, and (4) reproductive and sexuality counseling. (Author)

Simulated patients were trained to present a series of clinical problems in an undergraduate program of reproductive medicine. They were used in a variety of approaches and served to highlight communication skills and to force attention on the recognition, assessment, and management of patient problems. (Author/LBH)

This study analyzes the twentieth-century American fertility swing. By viewing the three classical fertility determinants, fecundity, mate exposure, and birth control, as dynamic variables with both independent and interactive effects, it attempts to decipher the process by which some individuals gain control of their childbearingwhile others do…

Examined determinants of occurrence and outcomes of premarital pregnancy. Found cohabitation, being black, poor grades and high peer activity in high school, use of illicit drugs other than marijuana and dropping out to be associated with increased risk of premarital pregnancy. Premarital births were overrepresented among blacks, as were abortions…

Examines explanations for lower fertility rates including direct and opportunity costs. Considers things one forgoes to have children, including earnings, work and nonwork time, and type of job. Argues that women limit their fertility or remain childless for the symbolic significance of childbearing and their lifestyles, reflecting their view of…

While many institutions still treat pregnancy and childbirth strictly as medical disabilities, some have adopted flexible policies that allow for reduced teaching loads, unpaid time off, and longer probationary periods before tenure decisions. The AAUP believes pregnancy should be treated strictly as a medical disability. (MLW)

Describes a model student-organized awareness week concerning teen pregnancy. The stated goal of the week was to create awareness of the increasing number of teen pregnancies and the impact of a child on a teen's life. (CH)

Describes efforts to address the problem of teenage pregnancy in Sweden, which has a much lower adolescent fertility rate than the United States. Discusses compulsory sex education; school gynecological clinics and youth centers; the easy availability of the pill and condoms; and cultural and attitudinal differences regarding abortion and…