Evaluation of emotional/behavioral characteristics of 67 learning disabled children indicated that children with left hemisphere impaired cognitive profiles demonstrated dysphoria, anxiety, and social withdrawal; while children with right hemisphere impaired profiles demonstrated low rates of dysphoria/anxiety and increased somatic complaints.…

An overview of the literature on childhood depression precedes results of a study of 192 regular class students (grades 4-6) in Alberta, Canada, in which diagnostic measures were used to predict aspects of depression. Among findings were that self-esteem and family stability variables significantly predict depression in children. (Author/JW)

Forty teachers of special education students were observed during academic instructional periods to analyze the role of teacher questioning. No differences were indicated in the extent to which questioning was used in classrooms for emotionally handicapped, learning disabled, or mentally retarded children. Results are discussed. (JL)

Examined the effects of integrating an unstable group of seriously disturbed adolescents into an existing day treatment program. Found the new admission subjects' disruptive behavior was not imitated by members of the established group, where there was a significant decrease in aggression and the overall number of psychiatric events. (Author/KS)

The study assessed 237 seriously emotionally disturbed (SED) students and 577 nondisabled students (ages 6-18) on measures of depression, hyperactivity, social status, intelligence, school placement, and aspects of educational achievement. SED students showed greater depression than the nondisabled sample. Patterns of intercorrelations were…

A 1980 study of special education teachers' reports on the availability and usefulness of several types of assessment information for emotionally disturbed/behaviorally disordered students was replicated and results compared. Overall progress was found, with notable increases in availability for types that teachers consider educationally relevant,…

Analyzed communication among severely disturbed adolescents, recording interactions from computer-based "conferences" and small group face-to-face sessions, to determine differences in indications of psychological state, interpersonal interest, and expressive style. Content analysis revealed that computer-mediated communication was more, and more…

Investigated peer social status of 6- through 13-year-olds. Found anxiety-disorder children significantly less liked than normal children, but anxious and conduct-disorder children similarly liked. Conduct disorder children received more "like least" and "fight most" nominations, with anxious and nonreferred groups alike. The anxious group…

The impact and implications of key legal decisions as they affect special education for seriously emotionally disturbed students are discussed. Legal decisions in three key areas are addressed: eligibility for services, discipline (exclusion from school), and related services, particularly psychological treatment. (Author/JW)

The rapidly increasing numbers of Central American refugees in the United States include many whose sufferings have led to severe psychological problems. The article attempts to lay a foundation for assisting them by discussing the following: (1) origins of disorders; (2) culture shock and stress; (3) prevalence of symptoms; and (4) suggestions…

To deal with rising teen suicide and attempted suicide, this Michigan school system developed a comprehensive crisis response plan encouraging greater communication with students, parents, and school staff members and involving immediate response by trained professionals and followup procedures to stabilize the school community. (WTH)

Multiple personality disorder is associated with a high incidence of physical and sexual abuse during childhood. While difficult to diagnose, multiple personality is easier to treat if diagnosed early in childhood or adolescence. Treatment for multiple personality focuses on establishing trust and communicating with and integrating the…

One way art teachers can motivate emotionally disturbed 5- to 12-year-old children who suffer from fear of failure and poor self-concepts is through the sharing of a book or record. A relaxed, safe atmosphere established through readings or songs allows children with special needs to experiment and express themselves through art. (RM)

Teachers of 35 boys in the Lehigh University-based laboratory school for emotionally and behaviorally disturbed children completed rating scales assessing aggressive behavior in students. Children completed similar self-report instruments. Frequency counts of aggressive outbursts and outburst durations were recorded. Results found significant…

Examines the perceptions of the usefulness of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) by teachers (N=150) of emotionally disturbed and learning disabled children. The majority of respondents indicated that although the IEP does have some utility, it does not usually assist them in planning day-to-day instruction. (BH)