bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Beliefs, Behaviors, and Cardiovascular Fitness of Mexican Immigrant Women
Authors: Juarbe Teresa C. , Lipson Juliene G. , Turok Xiomara
Published: April 2003

This descriptive study examined physical activity beliefs, behaviors, and cardiovascular fitness of a convenience sample of 51 married Mexican immigrant women (MIW) with children in Northern California. Standardized tools/procedures were used to measure the variables of interest and to determine cardiovascular fitness levels. The majority (78%) was not involved in regular physical activity and had below average or poor cardiovascular fitness (76%). However, 93% had a positive attitude, were well-informed of the benefits, and perceived physical activity to be a health-promoting behavior. Cultural values and beliefs about physical activity, gender roles, and social and physiological factors were described as barriers to women’s intention to engage in physical activity.
Multiple Role Stress and Patterns of Coping of Egyptian Women in Clerical Jobs
Authors: Hattar-Pollara Marianne , Meleis Afaf Ibrahim , Nagib Hassanat
Published: April 2003

Egyptian women are increasingly becoming a significant work force; however, many of these women continue to occupy low-income jobs. In the study reported here, 190 women in Egypt employed in clerical jobs were asked about the satisfaction and stress they experience in their work and maternal roles. They were also asked about their coping approaches and the demands in their daily lives. The Women’s Role Interview Protocol was used to collect data. The results were analyzed within the symbolism of the Arab/Egyptian language using thematic and content analysis. A prevailing theme is the interconnectedness among all women’s roles when describing their stress, satisfaction, and coping. Another major theme that transcends all roles is the perception of inequality and how it affects their daily lives. Emergent stressors were grouped under employment role stress, maternal role stress, marital role stress, and relational role stress. Women coped through learning to be self-reliant and by using cognitive and emotion-focused coping approaches. Women’s stress was embedded in inequality in gender roles, and the women are empowered to cope through relying on endurance and outliving conflict.
Nursing in a Global Community: A Study Abroad Program
Authors: Tabi Marian M. , Mukherjee Subarna
Published: April 2003

Nursing in a global community is a study abroad program at Georgia Southern University School of Nursing. The program hosted at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, West Africa, provides opportunity for undergraduate and graduate health profession students to experience nursing, health care service and delivery in a developing country. Description of the program and benefits of study abroad programs are discussed as well as a student perspective on the transcutural experience in Ghana.
A Look Into the Amish Culture: What Should We Learn?
Authors: Weyer Sharon M. , Hustey Victoria R. , Rathbun Lesley , Armstrong Vickie L. , Anna Samantha Reed , Ronyak Jeanne , Savrin Carol
Published: April 2003

It is important to understand the Amish culture in order to provide appropriate, acceptable, and accessible health care to this culturally diverse group. A case study pertaining to the care of a dying elderly Amish woman living in a rural Amish community is examined. This allows for exploration into the world of the Amish community in greater detail. Their overall beliefs, values, and behavior are discussed as well as how their lifestyle affects their health care decisions, access to health care, and reimbursement of services. Nurse practitioners can offer culturally sensitive and appropriate health care to the Amish population by recognizing important cultural values that have survived for more than three hundred years.
Diversity in Care Values and Expressions Among Turkish Family Caregivers and Dutch Community Nurses in the Netherlands
Authors: van den Brink Yolande
Published: April 2003

Aside from being a world harbor, Rotterdam is known for its large numbers of migrant groups. The Turkish community comprises one of the largest groups of migrants. This article reflects on the findings of an ethnonursing research, Transcultural Care for the Elderly at Home, which explored diversity and universality in care values and meanings relevant to care of the elderly at home between Turkish lay caregivers and Dutch professional nurses in the community. It compares the caring values and patterns of these two groups of caregivers within the cultural context of Turkish families in Rotterdam. Based on the comparative findings of the research, recommendations for implementing culturally congruent nursing care for Turkish elders at home are presented.
The Diversion Decision-Making Process from the Juvenile Court Practitioners' Perspective
Authors: Potter Roberto Hugh , Kakar Suman
Published: April 2003

This research examined the reported effect of legal and nonlegal factors on those who actually make decisions about juvenile diversion. Previous researchers have analyzed the outcomes of recorded decisions made in the official justice process, with special attention paid to the effects of legal and extralegal variables on juvenile diversion decisions. However, little attention has been given to how the key players explain the influence of these factors on decision-making processes in the juvenile justice system. These actors—court-designated workers, county-appointed attorneys, and police administrators—significantly affect the outcomes of the diversion decision. This research attempts to fill in gaps left by earlier research between how the process is supposed to work in legislation and previously observed differences with regard to the effect of legal and extralegal factors on recorded outcomes. It is suggested that process-related factors should be examined to strengthen the understanding of how diversion decision making is achieved. These results are particularly significant in a time of increasing calls for get-tough and zero-tolerance policies with regard to even minor juvenile infractions.
Girls in Detention
Authors: Kakar Suman , Friedemann Marie-Luise , Peck Linda
Published: April 2003

This study examined the risk factors related to delinquency in an effort to describe the problem of rising female juvenile delinquency. It also examined the context of family environments in which female juvenile delinquents live. Using a triangulated methods approach, the data collected via focus group discussions with 30 female residents in a Regional Detention Center and 100 official intake records revealed that childhood maltreatment, parental incarceration, and school discipline problems were significant risk factors associated with delinquency. Focus group results also indicated that most female delinquents were victims of sexual and physical abuse. Many had family members who engaged in violence and alcohol and other substance use, and the girls themselves engaged in these activities at a young age. To address the growing problem of female delinquency and develop more effective intervention and prevention programs for girls, it is necessary to understand the importance of the family environment in which girls grow. Prevention and intervention programs should provide gender-specific services for girls as well as adequate services for their families.
Impact of Violence on Problem Behavior Among Adolescents
Authors: McGee Zina T. , Baker Spencer R.
Published: April 2003

This article measures the effects of exposure to violence on problem behavior (adjustment outcomes) among 306 African American middle and high school students in the state of Virginia. Relying on recent research examining the relationship between violent events and problem behavior, the study uses structural equation modeling to examine internalizing and externalizing behavioral characteristics (i.e., delinquency, depression, negative self-esteem, and avoidance) among African American youth exposed to violence through direct victimization, witnessing violence, and association with delinquent peers. The results show a strong association between victimization experience and adjustment outcomes including internalizing (i.e., self-rejection, depression) and externalizing (i.e., offenses) problem behavior. The results also suggest a linkage between victimization and avoidance as a coping strategy. With regard to gender differences, the findings indicate a greater influence of victimization on offenses, self-rejection, and avoidance among men and a stronger influence of victimization on depression among women in the sample. Implications for intervention and future research are discussed.
Social Capital and Protecting the Rights of the Accused in the American States
Authors: Brody David C. , Lovrich Nicholas P.
Published: April 2003

High levels of social capital in communities are related to a number of positive conditions. Although high levels of social capital are generally viewed positively, they may also have negative consequences, particularly the mistreatment of people outside the mainstream. As social capital increases, individuals charged with committing crimes—norm violators—may experience increased sanctions and decreased constitutional protections from the state. To explore this aspect of social capital, this study examines the relationship between a state's level of social capital and the likelihood of its highest court granting criminal defendants rights beyond those man-dated by the Supreme Court.
Assessing the Relationship Between Police-Community Coproduction and Neighborhood-Level Social Capital
Authors: Scott Jason D.
Published: April 2003

Some have argued that community policing represents a reform that is capable of increasing neighborhood social capital. Collaborative relationships between police and communities are expected to enhance the capacity of residents to collectively ameliorate neighborhood conditions. This study examines the relationship between police-community coproduction and neighborhood-level social capital using data from a survey of neighborhood leaders. Results provide partial support for the claim that community policing is related to social capital. More specifically, collective social capacity was shown to be higher in neighborhoods where residents perceive the police to be more accessible. Future considerations for the study of community policing and social capital are discussed.
Social Capital Among Women Offenders
Authors: Reisig Michael D. , Holtfreter Kristy , Morash Merry
Published: April 2003

Studies investigating the trials and tribulations of women offenders in the United States are becoming increasingly common. One theme in the literature is that successful reentry of women offenders is dependent on support of social networks. Generally, social theorists posit that a variety of positive outcomes is associated with healthy social networks. For example, networks provide social structural resources (“social capital”), which in turn promote acquisition of skills and knowledge (“human capital”) to achieve goals that would otherwise be unattainable. This article investigates the differential distribution of social networks in terms of size and resources (i.e., support) across social groupings (e.g., race, age) using a sample of adult female felons. The results show that (a) better educated and higher income offenders are members of larger social networks, and (b) poorly educated women offenders, women with annual legal incomes below $8,000, and younger offenders have access to lower levels of support.
Social Capital, Crime, and Human Nature
Authors: Savage Joanne , Kanazawa Satoshi
Published: April 2003

In the present article, a reinterpretation of the concept of social capital is forwarded that incorporates the principles of evolutionary psychology. The authors propose that social capital, from the evolutionary psychological perspective, is any social relationship that, directly or indirectly, helps an individual maximize reproductive success through promoting survival, the acquisition of resources, mating, or the promotion of offspring to sexual maturity. The evolutionary psychology–informed construct of social capital is applied to several theoretical domains in the field of criminology to demonstrate how this perspective can bridge theories on the proximate causes of crime with the “ultimate” causes of human nature and human behavior.
A Cross-National Comparison of Gay and Lesbian Domestic Violence
Authors: Burke Tod W. , Jordan Michael L. , Owen Stephen S.
Published: April 2003

This research examines the prevalence of same-sex domestic violence in the United States and Venezuela. Data were collected through a survey administered using snowball and convenience sampling. Approximately two thirds of the sample in both countries reported experiencing some form of domestic violence, although substantially fewer had received information about or knew of resources supporting victims of same-sex domestic violence. In addition, respondents were surveyed about attitudes toward law enforcement and courts. Venezuelan respondents viewed law enforcement significantly more negatively than United States respondents, but there were not significant differences regarding perceptions of courts. Conclusions and practical implications are offered.
Instrumental Sexual Scripting
Authors: Keys David Patrick
Published: April 2003

Researchers have found that gender-role assignment, formerly thought to be accomplished early in life and permanently affixed, is less durable and immutable than previous supposed. Data collected regarding indigenous sexual behavior in both male and female correctional institutions present a fluid notion of gender roles as more dependent on environmental factors, an inmate's incorporation into the institutional culture, and intrinsically associated with survival strategies and negotiated orders.
Lavender and Blue
Authors: Bernstein Mary , Kostelac Constance
Published: April 2003

Most victims of antigay/lesbian hate crimes never report these crimes to police for fear of hostility and abuse. Similarly, lesbian/gay officers fear a negative response if they come out at work. Research assumes but has not shown that dislike of lesbians and gay men translates into negative behavior. This article employs original survey data to examine the relationship between attitudes and behavior toward lesbians and gays among subsets of sworn officers. We employ the concept “sexual project” to argue that this relationship is shaped by experiences that determine respondents' relationship to (homo)sexuality, masculinity, and civil rights. We conclude by outlining implications of homophobic attitudes within law enforcement.
Female Sexuality, Citizenship, and Law
Authors: Nicolosi Ann Marie
Published: April 2003

The relationship between sexuality and law encompasses the regulation of sexual activities, expressions, behaviors, and choice of sexual partners. Although the most visible forms of sexual regulation occur in the policing of homosexual activities, heterosexual activities are not exempt, especially the activities of heterosexual females. This article examines how immigration and citizenship law provided the legal basis for the attempted deportation of an American-born female citizen under the “moral turpitude” clause of immigration law. It is a historical snapshot of a moment in which immigration restrictions, sexual politics, and law intersected to create a unique situation that compromised the civic rights of an American-born woman.
A Comparison of Prebooking and Postbooking Diversion Programs for Mentally Ill Substance-Using Individuals With Justice Involvement
Authors: Lattimore Pamela K. , Broner Nahama , Sherman Richard , Frisman Linda , Shafer Michael S.
Published: April 2003

Eight programs are described representing a variety of approaches to diversion in terms of point of criminal justice intervention (prebooking or postbooking), degree of criminal justice coercion, type of linkages provided to community-based treatment, and approaches to treatment retention. The authors also describe the characteristics of almost 1000 study participants who were diverted into these programs over an 18-month period and examine the extent to which systematic differences are observed between prebooking and postbooking subjects, as well as among sites in each of the diversion types. Results suggest that prebooking and postbooking diversion subjects were similar on most mental health indicators, but differed substantially on measures of social functioning and substance use and criminality, with postbooking subjects scoring worse on social functioning and reporting more serious substance use and criminal histories. Variability among sites was also observed, indicating differences in local preferences for the types of individuals deemed appropriate for diversion.
Suicidal Ideation and Behavior Among Women in Jail
Authors: Charles Devon R. , Abram Karen M. , Mcclelland Gary M. , Teplin Linda A.
Published: April 2003

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in U.S. jails; more than 400 jail inmates take their lives each year. Many risk factors for suicide are overrepresented in jail populations. The numbers of women incarcerated in the nation’s jails have increased dramatically in recent years. Yet most research on suicide has focused on males. This study assesses the rates and patterns of suicidal ideation and behavior among 1,272 women in jail. Overall, 53.7% reported suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior at some point in their lifetime. Non-Hispanic Whites were more likely than Hispanics to report thoughts of death (OR = 1.67), and more likely than African Americans to report wanting to die (OR = 1.59), thoughts of suicide (OR = 1.74), and previous suicide attempts (OR = 2.47). The authors discuss implications for research and the criminal justice system.
Criminal History, Physical and Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Services Use Among Incarcerated Substance Abusers
Authors: Mateyoke-Scrivner Allison , Webster J. Matthew , Hiller Matthew L. , Staton Michele , Leukefeld Carl
Published: April 2003

Recent research shows that drug-involved offenders engage in many health-risky behaviors, but relatively little is known about the impact of criminal history on the health of these individuals. In this study, criminal history and health information was collected from 661 male drug-abusing prisoners. Findings showed that having a more extensive criminal history was associated with higher rates of overall physical health problems but not mental health problems. Although no relationship between mental health and crime was observed, future research on the connection between psychological problems and criminal history is discussed. Years of lifetime use of five different drugs was positively related to criminal history. In terms of health services utilization, offenders with more serious criminal histories were more likely to have received previous medical treatment in a hospital emergency room and to have received treatment for drug or alcohol abuse.
Managing At-Risk Juvenile Offenders in the Community
Authors: Borum Randy
Published: April 2003

More than a half-million juveniles are under community supervision as a result of violent or delinquent behavior. Research has shown that treatment can reduce their risk of reoffending. This article reviews and distills the key lessons from hundreds of empirical studies and metaanalyses and applies them to practice. The author argues for conducting systematic and developmentally informed risk assessments, selectively assigning intensive intervention to the highest risk offenders, focusing on criminogenic treatment targets, using proven interventions and treatment strategies, and applying rigor in implementation and follow-up.
A System Identification Technique Using Pseudo-Wavelets
Authors: Hou Zhikun , Hera Adriana
Published: April 2003

Sensitivity of regular wavelets to singularity has been used to detect a suddenly occurred structural damage and estimate its location in a large-scale structure. The usage of the approach is sometimes limited by a demand to the signal that the measurement data need to include the time period when the damage occurred.

In this paper a concept of pseudo-wavelet is proposed based on shifting and scaling of conventional wavelets and a related pseudo-wavelet transform (PWT) is defined. A class of pseudo-wavelets is defined based on the frequency response function of the single degree of freedom mass-spring-dashpot system. A PWT-based system identification technique is developed to estimate the system parameters, mainly the natural frequencies and the damping ratios of the structure using vibration data. The approach can be applied for structural health monitoring. Change in system parameters using any two segments of response data may suggest occurrence of structural damages. The proposed approach is illustrated for single- and multiple-degree-of-freedom mass-spring-dashpot systems using simulated vibration response data. In all the case studies, the structural parameters are successfully estimated.
Research on F-Scan Acoustic Imaging of Composite Materials
Authors: Chen Yifang , Luo Wei , Fu Deyong , Shi Keren
Published: April 2003

In order to test the flaws of composite materials, the acoustic imaging method of F-Scan (Feature Scan) has been studied in this paper and a testing system has been developed. Compared with the method of C-Scan which only records the wave amplitude and time of flight of each testing wave, F-Scan records the full wave information at each testing point. This makes F-Scan a strong tool for the testing of composite whose quality is difficult to test and evaluate. Defect features such as the porosity, delamination, inclusion and crack can be extracted accurately and swiftly through this system. Lateral resolution has been greatly improved by focusing transducer immersed in water or by digital changing focus. The image of the defects can be reconstructed within a half wavelength of layer. The frequency analysis technique of spectrum imaging and the chromatography technique have also been used.
Linear Location of Acoustic Emission Sources with a Single Channel Distributed Sensor
Authors: Sundaresan Mannur J. , Schulz Mark J. , Ghoshal Anindya
Published: April 2003

In this paper, distributed sensors are evaluated for structural health monitoring. A distributed sensor is formed by electrically connecting a number of acoustic emission sensor nodes in series. The individual nodes are placed at strategic locations on the structure. This arrangement allows the detection of acoustic emissions occurring at multiple regions of the structure using a single monitoring channel, and hence significantly reduces the cost, complexity, and weight of on-board instrumentation. The performance of the distributed sensor is compared against that of conventional single node sensors on a fiberglass bar and on a graphite epoxy sandwich panel using simulated acoustic emission signals. These comparisons indicate that a single distributed sensor can monitor large areas of the structure without degrading the signal amplitude or the frequency bandwidth. A new analysis procedure to determine the location of the acoustic emission source from this single channel data is also introduced. Experiments performed on a steel bar indicate that reasonable accuracy can be achieved in locating the acoustic emission sources along a line segment just using the single channel data from the distributed sensor.
Electro-Mechanical Impedance Method for Crack Detection in Thin Plates
Authors: Zagrai Andrei N. , Giurgiutiu Victor
Published: April 2003

This paper describes the utilization of Electro-Mechanical (E/M) impedance method for structural health monitoring of thin plates. The method allows the direct identification of structural dynamics by obtaining its E/M impedance or admittance signatures. The analytical model for two-dimensional structure was developed and verified with experiments. Good matching of experimental results and calculated spectra was obtained for axial and flexural components. The ability of the method to identify the presence of damage was investigated by performing an experiment where the damage in the form of crack was simulated with an EDM slit placed at various distances from the sensor. It was found that the crack presence dramatically modifies the E/M impedance spectrum and this modification decreases as the distance between the sensor and the crack increases. Several overall-statistics damage metrics, which may be used for on-line structural heath monitoring, were investigated. Among these candidate damage metrics, the αth power of the correlation coefficient deviation, CCDα,3< α <7, used in the high frequency band 300-450 kHz, was found to be most successful. Careful selection of the high frequency band and proper choice of the appropriate damage metric were found to be essential for successful damage detection and structural health monitoring.
Leader Emergence And Gender Roles in All-Female Groups
Authors: Gershenoff Amy B. , Foti Roseanne J.
Published: April 2003

Research suggests that gender role, rather than sex, is associated with the perception of individuals as leaders. This study tests the effect of gender role and intelligence on leadership emergence by using a pattern approach and manipulating task type. Two hundred female undergraduate participants, categorized by their pattern of masculinity, femininity, and intelligence, were placed in groups of 4 members. Groups were randomly assigned to an initiating-structure or consensus-building task condition. In the initiating-structure task condition, both masculine-intelligent and androgynous-intelligent individuals emerged more than feminine-intelligent or mixed-pattern individuals. In the consensus-building task condition, feminine-intelligent individuals did not emerge as leaders more than masculine-intelligent or mixed-pattern individuals. However, partial support was found for the emergence of androgynous-intelligent individuals.
The Effects Of Leader Impression Management On Group Perceptions Of Cohesion, Consensus, And Communication
Authors: Rozell Elizabeth J. , Gundersen David E.
Published: April 2003

The primary purpose of the current study was to extend previous research by examining actual leaders in a small group setting to empirically assess the efficacy of using leader impression management (LIM) as a predictor of group satisfaction. Specifically, the current study explored LIM as a predictor of group cohesion, consensus, and communication using a sample of 105 undergraduate business students from a midwestern university. Results indicated that the impression management (IM) tactic of exemplification was predictive of group cohesion, feelings regarding group member relationships and decision processes, and feelings regarding group decision outcomes. The IM tactic of ingratiation was positively related to group cohesion. Helplessness was negatively related to feelings regarding group member relationships and decision processes. No IM tactics were predictive of feelings regarding individual effectiveness. Implications for the research findings as they relate to management education and small group research are discussed.
Psychometrics Of The Group Engagement Measure With Male Sex Offenders
Authors: Macgowan Mark J. , Levenson Jill S.
Published: April 2003

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Group Engagement Measure (GEM) with a purposive sample of 61 adult male sex offenders in long-term, open-ended treatment groups. The GEM was highly internally consistent with a low standard error of measurement. Construct validity consisted of assessing the correlations between the GEM and the Group Attitude Scale, the Sex Offender Treatment Rating Scale, and the Facets of Sexual Offender Denial at the scale and subscale levels. The entire scale was favorably correlated with the constructs, and the subscales had mostly significant associations, with correlations ranging from mild to strong, depending on the measure or subscale.
Model for Currency Exchange Rates and Its Validation
Authors: Thavikulwat Precha
Published: April 2003

A volume-independent model for currency exchange rates in international business gaming simulations is presented that is shown to be stable, simple, and fair. Based on foreign holdings of money, the model pegs exchange rates to allow for currency speculation. The effects of international trade, deposits, loans, and investments are discussed. Proof is given that the model is self-limiting and risk compensating. An empirical study of the model was conducted with 116 undergraduates participating in an international-business gaming simulation. Results show that in the very long term, currency values of the model move in rough correspondence with monetary theory, and in the short term, a high degree of uncertainty with no repeating pattern is evident. Uncertainty rose with the elapse of time between observations at the rate of about 1% per period. The adequate model is sensitive, capable, stable, simple, and fair.
Simulation Project Success and Failure: Survey findings
Authors: McHaney Roger , White Doug , Heilman George E.
Published: April 2003

This study investigates characteristics of successful and unsuccessful discrete event computer simulation projects. The findings show that unsuccessful projects are often characterized by high costs, model size constraints, and slow software. Successful projects are characterized by teamwork, cooperation, mentoring, effective communication of outputs, high-quality vendor documentation, easily understood software syntax, higher levels of analyst experience, and structured approaches to model development.
Traffic Jam: Psychological Assessment of a Gaming Simulation
Authors: Johansson Maria , Küller Rikard
Published: April 2003

This article describes intermediate stages in the development of TRAFFIC JAM, a computerized gaming simulation for children and adolescents. TRAFFIC JAMfocuses on the environmental and health impact of various means of transport, such as walking, biking, and going by bus or private car. It is being developed within the field of environmental psychology as a tool for promoting attitudes related to proenvironmental choice of transportation. So far, the program has been assessed in three empirical studies. In the first study, the background pictures were validated by means of semantic environmental description. Study 2 aimed to evaluate the hero figures in terms of Küller’s basic emotional process, and in Study 3, players’ emotional reactions to the first version of TRAFFIC JAMwere studied with both quantitative and qualitative methods. The important question of attitudinal change is not discussed in the article.
The Congruence™Game
Authors: Schwartz Robert G. , Teach Richard D.
Published: April 2003

This article describes a strategy-driven, experiential game that was designed to teach the participants (e.g., students, entrepreneurs, and business persons) the importance of personnel and strategy congruence in entrepreneurial environments. The decisions cover the areas of marketing, operations, finance, and human resources. The game allows participants to maximize their performance through congruent decision making, teaching them the value of congruence.
Integrating Visualization into the Modeling of Business Simulations
Authors: Perotti Victor J. , Pray Thomas F.
Published: April 2003

This article demonstrates the advantages of using visualization as part of the modeling process. Several examples are given to show how visualization can help developers to more completely understand the range of behaviors for their algorithms. Specifically, the Cobb Douglas function and Gold and Pray demand system are examined using a tool that combines mathematical modeling with visualization capabilities.
Constructs of Simulation Evaluation
Authors: Feinstein Andrew Hale , Cannon Hugh M.
Published: April 2003

Although instructional research on simulation has been around for almost 40 years, validation research has failed to hold itself to a common, scientifically acceptable methodology for evaluating this type of learning environment. Several comprehensive reviews of simulation assessment literature have all concluded that this problem stems from poorly designed studies, a failure to adhere to a generally accepted research taxonomy, and no well-defined constructs with which to assess learning outcomes. This article seeks to address the problem by reviewing the various concepts employed in the literature of simulation evaluation and integrating them into a coherent framework from which the evaluative process may proceed in a more systematic manner.
Games, Motivation, and Learning: A Research and Practice Model
Authors: Garris Rosemary , Ahlers Robert , Driskell James E.
Published: April 2003

Although most agree that games can be engaging and that games can be instructive, there is little consensus regarding the essential characteristics of instructional games. Implicit in the research literature is the notion that if we pair instructional content with certain game features, we can harness the power of games to engage users and achieve desired instructional goals. In this article, the authors present an input-processoutput model of instructional games and learning that elaborates (a) the key features of games that are of interest from an instructional perspective; (b) the game cycle of user judgments, behavior, and feedback that is a hallmark of engagement in game play; and (c) the types of learning outcomes that can be achieved. The authors discuss the implications of this approach for the design and implementation of effective instructional games.
Motivating Students beyond Teacher Expectations
Authors: Ince Amy
Published: April 2003

An English as a second language composition teacher discusses how a simulation motivated her students to perform successfully in oral presentations, debates, and composition writing. Students researched the simulation topic on the Internet even though they were not required to do so. The author suggests that many of the students had both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation.
Conflict and Roles in Simulations
Authors: Tjie Colleen B.
Published: April 2003

This article examines the function of conflict in simulations and questions the necessity of writing roles specifically intended to cause conflict. Also considered is the intercultural aspect of simulation writing for the English as a second language classroom and the effects that audience have on a simulation’s outcome.
Debriefing Stress
Authors: Hill Jonnie L. , Lance Cynthia G.
Published: April 2003

One often thinks of games and simulations as a low-stress activity, free of the anxieties of the traditional classroom. Although it is true that games and simulations may be free of the stress levels of the traditional classroom, a questionnaire given to graduate students in a class about games and simulations found that stress is not completely eliminated. Upon examination of this questionnaire, the authors found that people with certain personality types, as measured by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, experience stress at different intensities. The authors also found that all participants, regardless of personality type, needed debriefing.
Different Ways to Introduce a Business Simulation: The Effect on Student Performance
Authors: Snow Sheldon C. , Gehlen Frieda L. , Green Jack C.
Published: April 2003

Two ways of introducing a business simulation to adult graduate students were compared for their effect on student attitudes toward the simulation, including the importance they placed on doing well, the amount of effort they were willing to make, their confidence level, the actual effort they reported making, how effective they felt their team was, how valuable the simulation experience was in integrating their business education, and how valuable it was as a total learning experience. Group cohesion was measured as well. High group cohesion, the opportunity to practice entering decisions beforehand, extended periods of time to analyze first decisions, and higher grade weighting resulted in students’feeling more positive about the game, more willing to make an effort to succeed, and more confident in their ability to do well. These factors influenced actual effort made, perceived effectiveness in the game, and its value as a learning experience. A description of the more effective introduction is provided.
Applying constructivist approach to educational business games: Case REALGAME
Authors: Lainema Timo , Makkonen Pekka
Published: April 2003

Business organizations and their employees face ever-increasing complexity and accelerating changes. This brings along the need for training models that can transmit knowledge and skills needed in this kind of environment. Business process understanding is especially required. This article evaluates business games in the light of constructivism, a view of learning emphasizing the need to anchor training to everyday activities and concrete contexts, and introduces a new computer-based business game. The purpose of this construction is to give the business game participants a realistic view of business processes and thus enhance participant business process perception. The primary aim of the construction is to present business processes to game participants by providing a natural representation of the real world and a case-based learning environment that fosters reflective practice. Although this article does not explicitly describe a geographically distributed game case, it introduces a game construction based on Internet transmission protocol that can also be used in a distributed manner. But as such, the article argues for the use of techniques that support continuously processed and Internet-based gaming simulations.
KM QUEST: A collaborative Internet-based simulation game
Authors: Leemkuil Henny , de Jong Ton , de Hoog Robert , Christoph Noor
Published: April 2003

In this article, the development of a collaborative Internet-based simulation game for learning to solve knowledge management problems is described. The simulation game builds on two starting points: first, on psychological and pedagogical developments in learning and instruction, which are based on a shift from instructivistic toward constructivistic approaches; and second, on a perceived need for better training of people working in the emerging field of knowledge management. After having described these starting points in the introduction, the choice for using a simulation game is clarified and a set of assumptions that have been used to develop a simulation game are described. The resulting simulation game is described in the second part of this article together with the elements that have been implemented to support communication and collaboration at a distance, as well as those to support the learning process. The article ends with a summary of the results of the formative evaluation of the first prototype. The issue of collaboration via the Internet is a particular focus of discussion.
Problems in simulating social reality: Observations on a MUD construction
Authors: Lin Holin , Sun Chuen-Tsai
Published: April 2003

The authors look at computer-mediated simulation as an approach to studying social science issues and discuss its limitations, with the design process for a Multiple-User Dungeon (MUD) game serving as a context. Using data gleaned from interviews with the MUD designers, the authors present three findings: (a) fun is a key difference between simulations and reality, because a MUD user can always walk away from a game that is not fun but cannot walk away from difficult real-life situations; (b) simulated social systems require time and commitment from a fairly large population, which conflicts with the typical level of patience observed in most computer game players; and (c) the roles of technicians and designers as mediators in simulated social environments is an area requiring detailed study, because their attitudes toward technical constraints, social values, and stereotypes exert a strong influence on the appearance of their final products.
Adding value to simulation/games through Internet mediation: The medium and the message
Authors: Martin Andrew
Published: April 2003

This theoretical article identifies and classifies the added value of Internet mediation to simulation/games to inform their design, evaluation, and research. The fundamental capabilities of the Internet are to support communication and access to multimedia information resources readily and economically across the global computer network. The article proposes a framework that maps out how these capabilities can contribute to development, operation, or strategic learning outcomes of simulation/games. It discusses the validity, application, and implications of the framework. It concludes that Internet mediation lends itself particularly well to support computer-assisted simulation/games that use international collaboration of participants and information resources to develop skills and awareness in areas such as negotiation, decision making, and policy formulation in an intercultural context.
Motivational Interviewing to Encourage Self-Help Participation Following Alcohol Detoxification
Authors: Schilling Robert F. , El-Bassel Nabila , Finch Jane Blansfield , Roman Robert J. , Hanson Meredith
Published: April 2003

Objective: This study tested a motivational intervention designed to enhance the likelihood that detoxified alcohol users will seek and participate in any form of aftercare. Method: After a baseline interview, 96 clients (76 men and 20 women) in a hospital inpatient detoxification unit were randomly assigned to either a standard care condition or a motivational interviewing condition, consisting of three motivational sessions conducted by master’s-level therapists. Results: Two months after discharge, participants in the motivational condition did not differ from controls in the areas of sustained abstinence, typical drinking, or entry into formal treatment. However, clients receiving motivational interviewing were more likely to participate in 12-step groups. Conclusions: Motivational interviewing is a potentially useful strategy to encourage detoxification clients to initiate participation in self-help and may show promise as a strategy for helping alcohol users remain abstinent during the critical initial period following discharge from detoxification.
The Impact of Mobile Crisis Services on the Use of Community-Based Mental Health Services
Authors: Dyches Hayne , Biegel David E. , Johnsen Jeffrey A. , Guo Shenyang , Min Meeyoung Oh
Published: April 2003

Objective: To examine the impact of community-based mobile crisis services on postcrisis community-based mental health service use and user characteristics related to likelihood of postcrisis service use. Method: Differences in use of postcrisis mental health services and timing between a community-based intervention cohort and a matched hospital-based cohort were assessed using a Cox proportional hazards model. Results: A mobile crisis intervention consumer was 17% more likely to receive community-based mental health services within 90 days after the crisis event. Controlling for prior service use, mobile crisis intervention consumers with no prior mental health service use were 48% more likely to receive community-based mental health services within 90 days after the crisis event than a consumer from the hospital-based intervention cohort. Consumers more likely to use postcrisis services were African American, homeless, experiencing acute problems, previous mental health service users, and severely mentally disabled. Conclusions: Implications for social work practice are discussed.
Examining the Effects of Meditation Techniques on Psychosocial Functioning
Authors: Wolf David B. , Abell Neil
Published: April 2003

Objective: An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of chanting the maha mantra on stress, depression, and the three gunas—sattva (enlightenment), rajas (passion), and tamas (inertia)—described in the Vedas as the basis of human psychology. Primary hypotheses of the study were that the maha mantra group would increase sattva and decrease stress, depression, rajas, and tamas significantly more than the other groups. Method: Participants were tested at pretest, posttest, and follow-up, with testing times separated by 4 weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to a maha mantra group, an alternate mantra (placebo) group, and a control group. Results: MANOVA results supported these hypotheses from pretest to posttest at p < .05 for all dependent variables except rajas. Conclusions: The authors suggest that the maha mantra has potential in addressing problems related to stress and depression and that it be considered as one possible component of a spiritual approach to social work practice.
Cognitions and Behaviors Scale: Development and Initial Performance of a Scale for Use With Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Fabelo-Alcover Humberto E. , Sowers Karen M.
Published: April 2003

Objective: A conceptually based assessment scale was developed for use with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Method: A convenience sample of 287 university students completed a demographic survey and responded to a pool of items using a Likert-type scale. The main form of analysis is factor analysis, reliability and validity analyses, and t tests. Results: The analysis resulted in a valid and reliable multidimensional scale that is conceptually based. Hypotheses that survivors of CSA would score significantly higher than nonsurvivors and that female and male survivors of CSA would not have significant differences in subscale and total scale scores were supported. Conclusions: The scale reported here should be tested with known groups to further establish its validity and usefulness in the clinical assessment and intervention process of adult survivors of CSA.
The Life Distress Inventory: A Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Yoshioka Marianne R. , Shibusawa Tazuko
Published: April 2003

The Life Distress Inventory (LDI) is an 18-item rapid assessment tool measuring self-reported distress across areas of social life and functioning. Thomas, Yoshioka, and Ager (1994) originally developed this measure for clinical use with spouses of problem drinkers. The present report examines its utility with a sample of healthy, nonclinical adults. An assessment of the reliability and construct validity of the LDI was conducted based on a racially diverse sample of 176 men and women drawn from a medical study of body composition. A factor analysis resulted in the development of four sub-scales, each with adequate internal reliability. Subscale scores correlated with convergent factors in hypothesized directions and were unrelated to discriminant factors. Finally, LDI scores for these healthy adults were compared with those from a sample of HIV positive and obese patients also participating in the research. Recommendations for clinical use and future research are suggested.