This study examined relationships between cognitive functioning in older people and (1) levels of mental, physical and social activities, and (2) intentions regarding maintenance of cognitive functioning. Participants (N = 145) were 70-91 years of age, varied in health status and socio-economic backgrounds. Current cognitive functioning was…

This study investigated the transition experiences of youth with special health care needs (YSHCN). Fifty-five YSHCN completed a phone survey, which asked about their educational and vocational goals, current health care (e.g., access to adult care providers, health insurance, medications), life experiences (exercise, doing chores, cooking, types…

The relationship between long-term youth unemployment and family relationships and that between youth unemployment and courtship and marriage patterns were examined in a study conducted in two towns in South Wales. Thirty-seven young men and 26 young women between the ages of 18 and 25 who had been unemployed for 6 months or longer were…

While changes in levels of activity and in social relationships in old age have interested researchers for some time, longitudinal studies have only recently begun to yield information about changes in social relationships across time for older adults. Parents (N=74) of the 1928-1929 Guidance Study and Berkeley Growth Study children, who are now…

To compare differences between types of friendships on an assortment of communication and situational variables, a study was conducted that involved pairs of four types of intimate friends: male-male, female-female, male-female with romantic interest, and male-female without romantic interest. Subjects, 61 pairs of college students, completed…

This paper argues that communication is not only the essence of being human but also a vital property of life. Writers must become socially active and play an effective role in human relations through their writing. They must also have the courage to disclose their experiences and personal feelings in spite of censure, risk, and economic…

Part of a larger study of recreation and leisure patterns of adults in the Piedmont Region, this report focused on the activities of small town and non-metropolitan residents. The Piedmont Region was defined as counties where the western/northern boundary is fixed by the Appalachian Mountains and the eastern/southern boundary by the coastal plains…

A group of students were matched on the basis of compatible birth order; another was matched on the basis of conflicting birth order. After a month's experience in a residence hall their compatibility was examined. Students with conflicting birth order were more compatible than those with the same birth order. (Author)

Discusses inaccuracy of sexual expectations of members of opposite sex in direction of increased permissiveness, probably because of use of a "line by both male and female. Presents implications for sexual behavior standards. (Author/CJ)

Previous research suggests that while the urban elderly have demonstrable advantages in terms of many "objective" indicators of quality of life, they appear to have no corresponding advantage in terms of subjective or emotional well being. New substantive and new methodological techniques can both help to explain this paradox. (Author/GC)

A study of the role of the medical school dean's wife is discussed. Topics include: role orientation, perceived expectations, activities, resources, priorities, and satisfaction. A conceptual model is presented in the form of a three-part typology (active, passive, and nonparticipant) to describe the approaches used by wives. (Author/MLW)

Five books dealing with the suburbs are reviewed in this essay on suburbanization. Topics include demographic trends, suburban social life, government and social policy, and racial and economic integration. (Author/RLV)

Examined social interaction and depression among 42 elderly persons. Found depression was negatively correlated with measure of quantity of social interaction entailing frequent conversations and positively correlated with having reciprocally intimate relationships. Findings suggest that depression in older adults is negatively related to having…

Explores alcohol consumption (and other substance abuses) at historically black colleges compared with nonblack colleges and universities. The paper explores the consequences of alcohol and other drug use and examines what is known about binge drinking. Comparative research indicates far less drinking and substance abuse at black colleges. (GR)