Research indicates that the beta-adrenergic blocking agent propranolol has been used effectively in the treatment of aggressive behavior in diverse populations of both children and adults with and without organic diagnoses. The literature is reviewed and some of the current proposed explanations for propranolol's antiaggressive effect are…

Anticonvulsants have gained recognition for their beneficial effect in the treatment of aggressive behavior, particularly carbamazepine. Empirical studies of the effectiveness of anticonvulsants in decreasing aggression are reviewed and evaluated, and cost-benefit factors related to the use of anticonvulsants are evaluated. A protocol for the…

Factors affecting the development of a taxonomy of psychopathology for children with mental retardation are considered, along with the following diagnostic areas to address: stereotypic behavior and self-injury, autism, organic brain syndromes, and pervasive developmental disorders. Using data from multivariate studies and findings related to…

Presents an interview with Arthur M. Horne, chair of the Department of Counseling and Human Development Services at the University of Georgia. In the interview, Horne discusses his work with families, conduct disorders of children, multicultural issues, a social learning approach to groups, and recent developments in group work. (Author/NB)

Used Millon Adolescent Personality Inve.tory to compare personality styles, expressed concerns, and behavioral correlates of 13 conduct-disordered and 137 non-conduct-disordered adolescents. Conduct-disordered youth reported being very critical, harsh, and not respectful of others; tended to seek out the unpredictable and to be moody and…

This report describes trichotillomania (the irresistible urge to pull one's own body hair) in a young male with autism who was treated successfully with Fluoxetine, a serotonergic antidepressant. The possible etiologic interrelations and treatment implications of this kind of comorbidity are presented. (JDD)

B-endorphin and cortisol concentrations were examined in the plasma of mentally retarded adults who displayed symptoms of self-injurious behavior (SIB) (N=9), stereotypy (N=17), or SIB plus stereotypy (N=14). Compared to matched controls, patients with SIB plus stereotypy had elevated b-endorphin plasma, while cortisol levels were identical for…

Describes chemical model for patterns of aggressive behavior. Addresses cultural, neurobiological, and cognitive factors that affect violent children. Identifies five patterns of aggression (overaroused, impulsive, affective, predatory, and instrumental) and examines these dimensions of aggression for each pattern: baseline, precipitators,…

Presents Life Space Interview, intervention strategy for use during crisis work with troubled students. Describes use of Massaging Numb Values Life Space Interview, developed to help students in crisis who act out but later become overwhelmed by guilt and remorseful about their destructive behavior. Applies technique to case of 14-year-old girl in…

Notes that prenatal exposure to cocaine may result in broad range of deficits. Reviews pharmacological properties of cocaine critical to neurological and behavioral outcomes. Delineates specific multilevel and multidisciplinary interventions with family unit. Advocates that services for each child be based on individual strengths and weaknesses…

Six participants in school for students with behavior disorders were shown edited videotapes depicting themselves appropriately engaged in classroom activities. Participants were first exposed to training condition in which both appropriate and inappropriate behaviors of peer were observed or observed/recorded. Participants then observed or…

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that about .05% of children have the brain disorder called obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Recognizing OCD and anxiety disorders and helping children get needed help is tremendously challenging for schools. Sidebars list publications and organizations. (MLH)

Sensitivity theory divides the causes of challenging behavior into three categories, aberrant contingencies, aberrant environments, and aberrant motivation. This paper replies to criticism that sensitivity theory is circular and unsupported by empirical evidence by reporting on studies that support the theory and rejecting the idea that…

Interviews with 61 adolescents in juvenile detention centers revealed a very high rate of emotional disorders, especially suicide thoughts and attempts. However, recent health care changes result in adolescents' longer stays in detention centers rather than in the residential treatment that they need. (SK)

Hypothesizes that suicidal adolescents display a more negative attitude toward their bodies than nonsuicidal normal adolescents. Correlations showed that the higher the suicidal tendency, the stronger the negative feelings toward the body. The findings were explained as reflecting suicidal tendencies developing from early trauma and…