Analysis of 4 New Jersey studies of 3,329 homeowners found that (1) thinking about radon testing is predicted by general radon knowledge; (2) decision to test is related to perceived likelihood of risk; and (3) actual testing is influenced by situational factors such as locating and choosing test kits. (SK)

Scores on the Characteristics of Lifelong Learners in the Professions scale for 256 teachers and administrators identified self-motivation as the greatest predictor of participation in learning activities, followed by external motivation. Participants with lower levels of educational attainment spent more time on learning activities. (SK)

Discusses the development of an algorithm for an equitable distribution of state prevention funds to its substate jurisdiction based on the need for prevention services. Suggests that the final decision on the level of funding must be based on the selection of the schedule for resource allocation rather than the suggested amount or level of…

Examines the relationship between family-of-origin interaction and environment and the potential for young mothers to abuse their children. Findings suggest that providing the teenager with an accepting and supportive atmosphere may assist her in building a positive identity as a mother. Discusses implication of the findings in regard to service…

Offers a content analysis of science and technology stories in eight major newspapers. Shows conflict and depth in stories to be significantly related to predictor-variable population rank, with depth and breadth significantly related to predictor-variable time (years); and that organizational spokespersons were used more as sources than…

As part of a longitudinal study, 40 high-achieving scientists in Germany were identified and compared with a nationally representative sample. Among predictor variables were high academic achievement, curricular and extracurricular involvement in the natural sciences and mathematics during adolescence, and an inclination toward intellectual…

Examines the relationship between individual and general environmental characteristics for elementary (n=1,090), junior high (n=692), and high school (n=813) students and their odds of violent victimization in or around school. Results suggest that regardless of age, the risk of victimization is higher for students who think it is impossible to…

Study used an ecological framework to examine potential predictors of behavior problems among children of cocaine-using mothers. Maternal and child exposure to violence were considered to be distal ecological variables; substance use and caregiving were considered more proximal variables. Also investigates whether violent experiences contributed…

Examines the role of four noncognitive variables in predicting academic performance in 200 Division I athletes. Studies the noncognitive variables of athletic-academic commitment, feelings of being exploited, academic self-worth, self-handicapping excuses as well as several background and academic preparation variables. Finds all four noncognitive…

A national sample of female graduates of nursing schools (n=189) was resurveyed after 3 years. Scores on a caring ability inventory significantly increased after their entry into practice. The strongest predictor of postgraduate caring ability was undergraduate ability; school climate was second. (SK)

Investigates the relationships among pronunciation level (decoding), verbal level (listening), and accuracy level (reading) in grades 1 to 6, and for students who are in the advanced phase of decoding. Finds that the level of reading accuracy of students can be improved the most throughout grades 1 to 6 by emphasizing instruction that will improve…

Examines sexual harassment and assault of women in a wartime military example. Explores the impacts of these stressors and combat exposure on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology. Harassment and assault were higher than in civilian and peacetime military samples. The number of postwar stressful life events mediated the relationship…

A meta analysis was conducted of studies examining the relationship between grade point average and salary, with salary as the dependent variable. Results suggest that grades may be meaningful predictors of current salary and somewhat meaningful for starting salary. (SK)

Provides a review of published, counseling-relevant literature on the physical environment, with a focus on physical elements that may enhance or detract from the counseling process. Describes environmental variables that are relevant to counseling, provides examples of their practical importance, and describes possible application to counseling…

Identifies word factors associated with poor spelling in 5 school year-groups (ages 7 to 11 years) as: (1) the word's frequency in the English language; (2) word length; and (3) a measure of the phoneticity of the word. Explores the concept of word phoneticity. Presents data illustrating the predictive model of spelling. Discusses implications for…