bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Team Gender and Racial Composition on Perceptions of Team Performance in Cross-Functional Teams
Authors: Baugh S. Gayle , Graen George B.
Published: March 2007

Research on team gender and racial composition with respect to team effectiveness is reviewed. Published literature shows a dearth of studies on this issue in work organizations. The studies published suggest that teams with even slight variability on gender and race will be less positively evaluated. These suggestions are tested in a field setting, using 31 teams in a medium-sized state regulatory agency that were rated by team members and outside raters. Results showed that members of cross-functional project teams that vary with respect to gender or racial composition rate their team as less effective than members of homogeneous (all-male or all-White) teams. Ratings of external evaluators show no differences based on team composition. Antecedents and effects of these evaluations on female and minority team members are discussed.
On the Evolution of Female Mating Preferences as Pleiotropic Byproducts of Adaptive Evolution
Authors: Noor Mohamed A.F.
Published: March 2007

Although evidence is mounting that female mating preferences evolve at least in part as inciden tal (pleiotropic) consequences of alleles favored by natural selection, it is less clear how such pref erences can evolve when they are initially maladaptive, as by delaying reproduction. I extend a previous model by Tomlinson and O'Donald (1996) to investigate how dominance, sex-linkage, and sex-limitation affect the evolution of a costly new female preference. I find that recessivity of the new female preference can allow it to spread as a pleiotropic byproduct of adaptive evolution even when the novel preference is initially extremely detrimental. Further, three predictions of this model are satisfied by empirical data on the genetics of female mating preferences in Drosophila. Taken together, these findings suggest that incidental association of novel female preferences with alleles under selection could be a potent force in the origin and evolution of novel female mating preferences.
Goal Directed Adaptive Behavior in Second-Order Neural Networks: The MAXSON family of architectures
Authors: Crabbe Frederick L. , Dyer Michael G.
Published: March 2007

The paper presents a neural network architecture (MAXSON) based on second-order connections that can learn a multiple goal approach/avoid task using reinforcement from the environment. It also enables an agent to learn vicariously, from the successes and failures of other agents. The paper shows that MAXSON can learn certain spatial navigation tasks much faster than traditional Q-learning, as well as learn goal directed behavior, increasing the agent's chances of long-term sur vival. The paper shows that an extension of MAXSON (V-MAXSON) enables agents to learn vicariously, and this improves the overall survivability of the agent population.
A Hierarchical Network of Control Systems that Learn: Modeling Nervous System Function During Classical and Instrumental Conditioning
Authors: Klopf A. Harry , Weaver Scott E. , Morgan James S.
Published: March 2007

A computational model of nervous system function during classical and instrumental conditioning is proposed. The model assumes the form of a hierarchical network of control systems. Each control system is capable of learning and is referred to as an associative control process (ACP). Learning systems consisting of ACP networks, employing the drive-reinforcement learning mechanism (Klopf, 1988) and engaging in real-time, closed-loop, goal-seeking interactions with environments, are capable of being classically and instrumentally conditioned, as demonstrated by means of computer simulations. In multiple-T mazes, the systems learn to chain responses that avoid punishment and that lead eventually to reward. The temporal order in which the responses are learned and extinguished during instrumental conditioning is consistent with that observed in animal learning. Also consistent with animal learning experimental evidence, the ACP network model accounts for a wide range of classical conditioning phenomena. ACP networks, at their current stage of development, are intended to model sensorimotor, limbic, and hypothalamic nervous system function, suggesting a relationship between classical and instrumental conditioning that extends Mowrer's (1956, 1960a/1973) two-factor theory of learning. In conjunction with consideration of limbic system and hypothalamic function, the role of emotion in natural intelligence is modeled and discussed. ACP networks constitute solutions to temporal and structural credit assignment problems, suggesting a theoretical approach for the synthesis of machine intelligence.
Efficient Learning and Planning Within the Dyna Framework
Authors: Jing Peng  , Williams Ronald J.
Published: March 2007

Sutton's Dyna framework provides a novel and computationally appealing way to integrate learning, planning, and reacting in autonomous agents. Examined here is a class of strategies designed to enhance the learning and planning power of Dyna systems by increasing their computational efficiency. The benefit of using these strategies is demonstrated on some simple abstract learning tasks.
Using Genetic Algorithms to Learn Reactive Control Parameters for Autonomous Robotic Navigation
Authors: Ram Ashwin , Boone Gary , Arkin Ronald , Pearce Michael
Published: March 2007

This article explores the application of genetic algorithms to the learning of local robot navigation behaviors for reactive control systems. Our approach evolves reactive control systems in various environments, thus creating sets of "ecological niches" that can be used in similar environments. The use of genetic algorithms as an unsupervised learning method for a reactive control architecture greatly reduces the effort required to configure a navigation system. Unlike standard genetic algorithms, our method uses a floating point gene representation. The system is fully implemented and has been evaluated through extensive computer simulations of robot navigation through various types of environments.
Learning to Control Dynamic Systems with Automatic Quantization
Authors: Ling Charles X. , Buchal Ralph
Published: March 2007

Learning to control dynamic systems with unknown models is a challenging research problem. However, most previous work that learns qualitative control rules does not construct qualitative states; a proper partition of continuous- state variables has to be designed by human users and given to the learning programs. We design a new learning method that learns appropriate qualitative state representation and the control rules simultaneously. Our method can aggressively partition the continuous-state variables into finer, discrete ranges until control rules based on these ranges are learned. As a case study, we apply our method to the benchmark control problem of cart-pole balancing (also known as the inverted pendulum). Experimental results show that our method not only derives different partitions for the cart-pole systems with different parameters but also learns to control the systems for an extended period of time from random initial positions.
How Not to Murder Your Neighbor: Using Synthetic Behavioral Ecology to Study Aggressive Signaling
Authors: Wheeler Michael , de Bourcier Peter
Published: March 2007

The scientific account of intraspecific aggressive signaling is incomplete. In part, this is because it is difficult to identify the consequences (for the nature of signaling systems) of the different ecological contexts in which signaling has developed. The goal of our investigation is to complement the ongoing work in the biological sciences on this issue. Using a theoretical framework that we call synthetic behavioral ecology, we perform a series of experiments involving populations of simulated animals (animats) that, in their simulated world, must compete for food. When animats pick up reliable information about the "strength" of other animats within sensory range, a coherent form of collective behavior develops, which we call minimal territoriality. We then introduce the signaling of aggressive intentions. Each individual has a bluffing strategy that is determined by a form of artificial evolution in which there is no explicit fitness function. By varying, in energy terms, the cost of producing aggressive signals, and by analyzing the population dynamics at different costs of signaling, we are able to provide evidence that the handicap principle (according to which higher costs enforce honesty) can apply in multiagent ecologies. We then suggest how variations in the cost of signaling affect the territorial behavior. The article ends with a discussion of the current model and identification of some directions for future research.
Managing Cognitive and Mixed-motive Conflicts in Concurrent Engineering
Authors: Ramesh Balasubramaniam , Sengupta Kishore
Published: March 2007

In collaborative activities such as concurrent engineering (CE), conflicts anse due to differences in goals, information available, and the understanding of the task Such conflicts can be categorized into two types mixed-motive and cognitive Mixed-motive conflicts are essentially due to interest differentials among stakeholders Cognitive conflicts can occur even when the stakeholders do not differ in their respective utilities, but simply because they offer multiple cognitive perspectives on the problem Because conflicts in CE occur under a wider context of cooperative problem solving, the imperative for solving conflicts in such situations is strong This paper argues that mechanisms for managing conflicts in CE should bear a strong conceptual mapping with the nature of the underlying conflict Moreover, since CE activities are performed in collaborative settings, such mechanisms should accommodate information processing at multiple referent levels We discuss the nature of both types of conflicts and the requirements of mechanisms for managing them, The functionalities of an implementation that addresses these requirements are illustrated through an example of a CE task
Concurrent Materials and Manufacturing Process Selection in Design Function Deployment
Authors: Evbuomwan Nosa F. O. , Sivaloganathan Sangarappilai , Jebb Alan
Published: March 2007

This paper aims to enunciate a model for concurrent materials and associated manufacturing process selection within a comprehen sive design system called Design Function Deployment (DFD) The stages of the materials and manufacturing process functions deployment pro cess and how it interfaces with the DFD design model, is fully elucidated The interactions during the design process, between materials proper ties, manufacturing processes and form (shape, geometry and size) and how this impinges on the selection process is also discussed The paper concludes by discussing the software system architecture for the proposed materials and manufacturing process selection within DFD, and how it can be implemented
Hierarchical Concurrent Engineering in a Multiagent Framework
Authors: D'Ambrosio Joseph , Darr Timothy , Birmingham William
Published: March 2007

Our experience indicates coordination in concurrent engineering (CE) requires support for two types of relationships among decision makers supervisor/subordinate and peer-to-peer Supervisor/subordinate relationships are created by the standard hierarchical decomposition process that is required to solve any large design problem Peer-to-peer relationships arise when teams of decision makers must interact, without direct guidance, to achieve individual and common goals In this paper, we describe a general decision-making methodology, which we call hierarchical CE The emphasis of hierarchical CE is to provide support for both supervisor/subordinate and peer-to-peer relationships In addition to the concept of hierarchical CE, we present a supporting agent-based framework in which the preferences and constraints of a design supervi sor are distributed to design subordinates, who are expected to exploit their local expertise within the context provided by this global information A distinct separation between feasibility and value facilitates optimal decision-making by design agents, since the bounds on feasibility do not include arbitrary statements about value This distinction may prove useful for other problem domains as well
Supporting Concurrent Design in SCOPE
Authors: Miao Yongwu , Haake Jörg M.
Published: March 2007

Concurrent design can be viewed as processes of collaboration, coordination and co-decision making within and between cross-functional teams. Based on this view we argue that an appropriate integration of information sharing and activity synchronization ap proaches is necessary and beneficial for a concurrent design support environment. This paper investigates support for defining a set of co ordinated and concurrent collaborative activities that constitute a design process in the form of a process model, and for executing, monitor ing and dynamically modifying process models at runtime. Information sharing and activity synchronization are two key approaches that have to be integrated into a concurrent design support environment. Based on the concept of "session-based collaborative processes," we developed a modeling methodology and tools that enable team members to model concurrent design processes, and we built the SCOPE prototypical cooperation environment to support modification, monitoring, and execution of session-based collaborative processes. Specifically, we focus on support for individual cross-functional teams, that allows them to work in different styles in different situations. They can perform activities synchronously or asynchronously; in the same place or in different places; individually or jointly; and routinely or spontaneously. Equally, we emphasize support for cooperation between cross-functional teams. Because complicated interdependencies between activities, which are carried out by different teams, exist, facilities are provided so that people working in different teams can share artifacts synchronously or asynchronously. Furthermore, the shared artifacts can be used to synchronize not only sequential but also con current activities carried out by parallel teams.

Our approach can support synchronous and asynchronous cooperation among people not only within a team but also in different teams. Furthermore, SCOPE provides a high level of adaptability and flexibility for team members to model design models and concurrent design processes. Hypertext technology is used due to its inherent flexibility for information structuring as a basis for information processing and process support.
Application of Neural Networks in Feature Recognition of Mould Reinforced Plastic Parts
Authors: Marquez M. , Gill R. , White A.
Published: March 2007

Feature recognition is an application dependant task, which has been mostly focused in production planning of machining process. It plays a fundamental role and usually is the first step in downstream activities conceming product development process such as design for manu facturing, design for assembly and process planning. This report presents a methodology to carry out recognition of design for manufacturing fea tures of reinforced plastic components. A three-layer neural network system was created and trained using back-propagation-supervised leaming to recognise nine of the most important design features related to this manufacturing process. Also, a methodology for pre-processing 3-D solid models such that geometrical and topological information of the part could be suitable as network input is presented. High performance of the net system was achieved on the recognition of the trained features as it was observed in several test parts.
Family Counseling and Ethical Challenges with Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered (GLBT) Clients: More Questions than Answers
Authors: Janson Gregory R. , Steigerwald Fran J.
Published: March 2007

Couples, marriage, and family counselors face unique ethical and practice challenges in their dual commitment to the positive growth and integrity of both the individual and the family system. Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) persons and their families present unique ethical challenges. A series of brief case vignettes touch on a range of ethical issues for couples and family counselors, including training, supervision, custody evaluation, ethical decision making, counselor bias, gender, ethnicity, and referral.
The Relationship of Gender Role Beliefs, Negativity, Distancing, and Marital Instability
Authors: Guilbert Douglas E. , Vacc Nicholas A. , Pasley Kay
Published: March 2007

This study used longitudinal survey data from 469 females and 294 males to investigate the relationships among gender role beliefs, negativity, distancing, and marital instability to provide a better understanding of key factors that lead to marital instability.
A F.A.M.I.L.Y. Approach to Self-Care: Creating a Healthy Balance
Authors: Eckstein Donna
Published: March 2007

The F.A.M.I.L.Y. Approach to Self-Care introduces a systematic approach for couples and individuals in identifying personal perceptions of health toward balancing current strengths and weaknesses with self-care behaviors. Health factors within the acronym F.A.M.I.L.Y are identified as a model for self-care. The F.A.M.I.L.Y. Self-Care Assessment Inventory specifically describes the factors of health in the physical, emotional, social, mental, and spiritual dimensions of self. A model, “Caring for Self,” is also included to illustrate the need for integration and balance with self-care. The effects of stress and social support are discussed. Needs and problem-solving skills are identified. Questionnaires, “Creating a Healthy Balance” and “Health-A Balancing Act” assist the reader with identifying a plan of action to improve one’s health.
A Bold Perspective on Counseling with Couples and Families: An Interview with Arnold A. Lazarus
Authors: Christensen Teresa M.
Published: March 2007

This article illuminates a collaborative effort between the author and Dr. Arnold A. Lazarus, an internationally known presenter, author, and therapist. Many consider Lazarus to be a pioneer of behavior therapy and brief psychotherapy. Details about his unique perspective regarding therapy with couples and families will be presented. Boundary issues, marital myths, and divorce were a few of the topics that surfaced in conversations. Incorporated throughout discussions of each of these topics, Lazarus provided several case examples that illustrate his dynamic and innovative approach to working with clients.
Family Counselors as School Consultants: Where are the Solutions?
Authors: Doerries Denyse B. , Foster Victoria A.
Published: March 2007

A systemic perspective applied to school-based problems examines the interaction patterns between the home and school; the ecological view examines the contextual variables that affect child development. This article presents a home-school collaborative-consultation model for family counselors that combines a systems-ecological approach with solution-focused, problem-solving strategies to facilitate home-school problem-solving meetings. School personnel often perceive the child as the source of the problem, which limits the scope of their interventions and ignores the potentially positive effect of involving families in the problem-solving process. A need exists for mediators who think systemically and can facilitate productive relationships between families and schools. A case study illustrating the application of this model is presented and implications are discussed.
Family Therapy and Intrafamilial Child Sexual Abuse: Theoretical Dilemmas
Authors: Lewis Judith A.
Published: March 2007

Therapists working with families affected by child sexual abuse may find that they need to rethink the theories and assumptions that normally guide their work. Several recent articles have discussed the theoretical dilemmas that family counselors face when they try to meet the needs of these troubled families.
Relationship Enhancement Therapy: A Case Study for Treatment of Vaginismus
Authors: Harman Marsha J. , Waldo Michael , Johnson James A.
Published: March 2007

A case study of Relationship Enhancement (RE) therapy with a couple, in which the woman was identified as having vaginismus, is presented including excerpts of transcripts from the therapy sessions. RE's effectiveness at improving communication skills and providing structure in which the couple could discuss the intimate issues affecting the sexual relationship is illustrated.
The Core Ingredients in the Treatment of Stepfamilies
Authors: Visher Emily B. , Visher John S.
Published: March 2007

This article discusses the interventions that stepfamily couples report to be the most helpful in dealing with the challenges that they encounter These include validation and normalization of stepfamily life, psychoeducation, development of a parenting coalition, reduction of feelings of helplessness, and strengthening the couple relationship. Case illustrations stress positive outcomes for both adults and children.
School-Based Collaboration with Families: An Effective Model for a Society in Crisis
Authors: O'Callaghan J. Brien
Published: March 2007

This article describes a family-school intervention model that shifts the ownership of child problem prevention and solution from therapy office to school and that assertively confronts the adult, especially marital, dynamics underlying many child problems. Comments are made on the politics of collaboration and on the implications for the functioning of mariage and family counselors.
The Impact of Racism on American Family Life
Authors: Lewis Judith A.
Published: March 2007

This review emphasizes the importance of therapists' awareness of the impact of race and racism on family life. Severalcurrent works of broad social commentary are examined.
Community Family Counseling
Authors: Huber Charles H.
Published: March 2007

From a systems perspective, family counseling is not a matter offocusing either on the family's dynamics or on contextual factors; rather, it is a process that considers both. Family counselors can widen their horizons and achieve their systems goals by considering community as a basis for their work. A review of a recent articlefrom the family counseling literature offers an example and highlights relevant recommendations for community family counselors.
A Paradoxical Intervention to Control Anger in Couple Counseling
Authors: Zuckermann Steven
Published: March 2007

This column provides a forum within which you, the reader, may share with your colleagues some of the creative techniques that you have developed or adapted and find successful in your work with couples and families. If it works well for you, it may be that others could adapt it for themselves or be stimulated to invent another technique. Submit your manuscripts of 6 to 10 double-spaced typed pages to Robert Sherman, 154-23A Riverside Drive, Beechurst, NY 11357 or to the Editor, indicating the manuscript isfor this column.
Clinical Issues in Working with Dual-Career Couples: Implications for Counselors
Authors: Granello Darcy Haag , Navin Sally
Published: March 2007

Dual-career couples represent a rapidly growing segment of the population of partners in the United States. These couples increasingly seek assistance from counselors in negotiating the particular stressors that arise from the dual-career lifestyle. In this article, common stressors facing dual-career couples are discussed. Implications for clinicians are drawn, and suggestions are made to assist counselors working with these couples.
Brief Treatment for Borderline and Narcissistic Couples: Working the Reenactment Spiral
Authors: Clark Steven
Published: March 2007

This article develops a brief psychoanalytically informed treatment modelfor borderline and narcissistic couples. Advantages and dis-advantages of brief treatment for this population are explored, followed by treatment principles. The phases of treatment are reviewed with an emphasis on process and interventions. There is an exploration of managing the spiraling escalation of affect and harnessing it tofoster growth. Case material is presentedfor illustration.
Using Individual Psychology Concepts to Compare Family Systems Processes and Organizational Behavior
Authors: Kern Roy M. , Peluso Paul R.
Published: March 2007

The authors provide a conceptual framework based on the principles of individual psychology and family systems theory for understanding important aspects of organizational behavior. The discussion includes individual and group behavior and addresses the similarities between the organization and the family as a system, leadership and parenting, employees and siblings in the family constellation, and corporate culture and family atmosphere. In addition, issues with regard to rules, regulations, and methods of child training, along with the similarities between problem employee and the identified patient in the family, are discussed. The authors attempt to integrate practical applications of this model in a variety of organizational settings.
Predicting Occupational Considerations: A Comparison of Self-Efficacy Beliefs, Outcome Expectations, and Person-Environment Congruence
Authors: Gore Paul A. , Leuwerke Wade C.
Published: March 2007

Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) and Holland's theory of career choice both make predictions about individuals' occupational considerations. SCCT suggests that occupational considerations are partially a function of self-efficacy beliefs and outcome expectations whereas Holland's theory suggests that such considerations are a function of person-environment congruence. This study explored the relationships among self-efficacy beliefs, outcome expectations, congruence, and occupational considerations in a sample of 93 college students. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated a modest positive relationship between congruence and occupational considerations that was no longer evident when self-efficacy beliefs and outcome expectations were considered in the regression equation. Implications for practice and the continued evaluation of overlap among career theories are discussed.
A Validity Study of the Salter Environmental Type Assessment
Authors: Salter Daniel W.
Published: March 2007

The Salter Environmental Type Assessment (SETA) was designed to be a commensurate measure for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator instrument. To test its utility in the workplace, this study of the SETA was conducted with the Work Environment Scale and a sample of 202 college students. The results appeared consistent with previous research with both assessments and theoretical assumptions behind the two approaches to workplace measurement. The preliminary correlational analysis revealed multiple correlations that supported concurrent validity. To further examine the convergence between the assessments, a principal components factor analysis of the correlational results revealed three factors that accounted for 70% of the variance. Factor 1 appeared related to positive work settings (Extraversion, Intuition, and Feeling with Autonomy, Involvement, Innovation, Peer Cohesion, Supervisor Support, and inversely with Control). The second factor concerned structure in work settings (Judgment with Clarity, Task Orientation, and Physical Comfort). A third factor included Work Pressure and Task Orientation.
Integrated Assessment of Vocational Interests and Self-Rated Skills and Abilities
Authors: Swanson Jane L.
Published: March 2007

The study examined relations among measured vocational interests and self-rated skills and abilities in a sample of 112 college students (58 women and 54 men). Participants were administered the Strong Interest Inventory (Hansen & Campbell, 1985) and a self-ratings questionnaire assessing 14 general abilities and 30 specific skills. Results of principal components, correlational, and regression analyses suggested that (a) interests, abilities, and skills are sufficiently distinct to be considered separate constructs worthy of independent assessment, yet (b) interests, abilities, and skills within the same Holland type (1985a) show predictable relations to one another.
Stability of Self-Descriptive Holland Types and Career Indecision
Authors: Slaney Robert B. , Hall Michael E. , Bieschke Kathleen J.
Published: March 2007

This study examines the stability of self-descriptive Holland types over a 2-month period. Participants were 88 men and 207 women college-student volunteers who rank-ordered descriptions of the six Holland types based on the degree to which they were self- descriptive. They then responded to the Occupational Alternatives Question and the Career Decision Scale. Two months later they responded to the same materials again. Participants were divided into three groups based on the Iachan index ratings of the agreement between their self-descriptive Holland types over 2 months. There were no statistically significant differences between these groups on career decidedness and career indecision. Women whose self- descriptive Holland types changed the most had more difficulty relating their Holland types to occupations than did women whose self-descriptive Holland types changed the least. The results are discussed with their implications for career counseling and future research.
Career Assessment and the Values Scale
Authors: Nevill Dorothy D. , Kruse Steven J.
Published: March 2007

The Values Scale (VS; Super & Nevill, 1985b) was developed as part of the multinational Work Importance Study (WIS), a project supported by researchers in countries world-wide. The purpose of the WIS was to simultaneously develop career assessment instruments in several languages to facilitate the cross-cultural study of career development. The VS was one of two instruments developed by the WIS, and its purpose is to assess the general values a person seeks to satisfy through various life roles. The VS was designed to provide important information about a client's values for use in the Career Development Assessment and Counseling model (C-DAC; Super, 1983). A client's values are objectives sought in behavior. If these values cannot be satisfied through one particular career role, then the client must consider through what other life roles those values can be satisfied to ensure career satisfaction. The application of the VS to research is also discussed.
Rates and Correlates of Career Development
Authors: Hartung Paul J.
Published: March 2007

Readiness for making educational and vocational choices plays a crucial role in career decision-making (Super, 1955). The present study examined (a) personality and role correlates of career choice readiness and (b) rates of change in career choice readiness measured twice over a 1-year period. A cohort of 64 high school students (28 girls, 36 boys) completed the Career Development Inventory (CDI; Super, Thompson, Lindeman, Jordaan, & Myers, 1979), the Vocational Preference Inventory (VPI; Holland, 1985a), and the Salience Inventory (SI; Super & Nevill, 1986) at the end of their freshman and sophomore years. Results supported hypothesized sex differences in CDI scores, with girls scoring higher than boys on three CDI scales. Hypothesized increases in CDI scores commensurate with grade level were not supported. Significant, albeit low to moderate, correlations between various CDI scale scores and scores on several VPI and SI scales partially supported hypothesized relationships between career development and personality and role salience.
The Neurotic Dimension of Vocational Indecision: Gender Comparability?
Authors: Meldahl Joan M. , Muchinsky Paul M.
Published: March 2007

This study examines the relationship between neuroticism and career indecision in separate samples of men and women. College students (151 men, 183 women) constituted the samples. Career indecision was measured by the Career Decision Profile (CDP; Jones, 1989). Constructs used in the study that assess neuroticism included perceived stress, positive and negative affectivity, and state-trait anxiety. In addition, five life history factors predictive of vocational decision-making were also included. Separate cluster analyses were performed for each sample, resulting in two 2-cluster solutions. The first, the maladaptive clusters (high in stress, anxiety, and negative affectivity), emerged for both genders. The second clusters did not replicate across gender. Women in the second cluster, who were well-adapted, exhibited strong academic and scientific interests. The second cluster for men, although exhibiting low stress and anxiety, did not have high scores on any career decision-making variables. The results are discussed in the context of gender differences and the neurotic dimension of career indecision.
The Hidden Costs of "Free" Trade: Environmental and Social Consequences of Economic Liberalization in the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative
Authors: De Bremond Ariane C.
Published: March 2007

The "Enterprise for the Americas Initiative" was designed to incorporate Latin America into a system of global trade while addressing the region's need for environmental protection. Will the goal of trade liberalization undermine the Initiative's ability to contribute to sustainable development? This paper discusses the concept of sustainability as it relates to future development strategy. It also examines two threats to the implementation of sustainable development: first, from globalization of trade institutionalized by the EAI, and second, from GATT measures designed to buttress policy programs such as the EAI and NAFTA. Using applied notions of sustainable development, the Initiative's provisions—international standardization of trade regulations, open investment, debt accompanied by conditionality, and the Environmental Fund—are reviewed on the basis of their impact on environmental and social stability.
Building Effective International Environmental Regimes: The Case of the Global Environment Facility
Authors: Sharma Shalendra D.
Published: March 2007

In 1990, the World Bank and the United Nations created an international financing mechanism known as the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Funded by a small number of countries from the industrialized North, the GEF is designed to provide concessional financial assistance to lower and middle income developing countries for the incremental cost of projects with global environmental benefits. Following the 1992 Rio Conference, the GEF was appointed as the financing mechanism for both the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Climate Change Convention. Despite its short existence, the GEF has attracted a great deal of criticism. Drawing on evidence from selected GEF pilot projects, this article argues that much of the criticism is unjustified. The second part of the article outlines some constructive policies designed to assist the GEF successor, the GEF II, which has become a more effective mechanism to protect the global commons and promote sustainable development.
Prior Informed Consent and the Basel Convention: The Hazards of What Isn't Known
Authors: Krueger Jonathan
Published: March 2007

The international agreement to regulate hazardous waste trading, the Basel Convention, has relied on the procedure of prior informed consent (PIC) to ensure that human health and the environment are protected. As the debate over banning such trade continues, and as a new agreement using PIC for the trade in hazardous chemicals is being negotiated, it is useful to ask how effective the PIC mechanism has been. This article outlines how PIC functions in theory and in practice, and examines data on the notification and response rates of hazardous waste trade proposals. After outlining the experiences and draw backs of the PIC mechanism for hazardous wastes, several lessons regarding the use of PIC for hazardous chemicals are suggested.
Suggestions for Revised Scoring of the Tower of Hanoi Test
Authors: Ahonniska Jaana , Ahonen Timo , Aro Tuija , Lyytinen Heikki
Published: March 2007

Detailed time and error analyses of the Tower of Hanoi (TOH) test was performed using four repeated assessments of eight children (ages 9-12 years), who had perceptual and problem solving deficits. The time before each move was measured. In addition to the traditionally counted time scores, new, relative time scores were computed in order to separate the planning time from the general reaction speed. New error scores were defined and sum scores of serious errors (perserative moves, illegal moves, and wrong results) and mild errors (self-corrected moves, almost performed moves, and interrupted trials) were computed. The relative planning time correlated positively with the achieved score, and negatively with the serious errors. The serious errors correlated negatively with the achieved score. The relative planning time seems to measure the quality of planning better than does the raw planning time, and it is a recommended score for TOH analysis. The value of new error scores requires additional research.
Assessing the U.S. Presidents Using the Revised NEO Personality Inventory
Authors: Rubenzer Steven J. , Faschingbauer Thomas R. , Ones Deniz S.
Published: March 2007

This article describes the use of objective psychological instruments, including the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI-R), to assess the personalities of all 41 U.S. presidents to date. We briefly report our findings pertaining to the average profile of chief executives on the NEO PI-R and summarize data on two of our most illustrious presidents, Washington and Lincoln. We review a typology of presidents based on our data. Finally, we summarize the results of our investigation of the Big Five personality dimensions and facets that are related to presidential success (i.e., historical greatness). The project and findings are discussed in terms of the use of the NEO PI-R in psychohistorical research and assessment.
Comparison of the Fake Bad Scale and Other MMPI-2 Validity Scales with Personal Injury Litigants
Authors: Tsushima William T. , Tsushima Vincent G.
Published: March 2007

Five MMPI-2 validity scales were evaluated with 120 personal injury litigation patients (LP) and 208 clinical patients (CP) along with 43 normal participants (NP). The validity measures included the Fake Bad Scale (FBS), Infrequency scale (F), Back Infrequency scale (Eb), Infrequency-Psychopathology scale (F[p]), and the Dissimulation scale-2 (DA2). Results showed that only the FBS significantly differentiated the LP and CP, whereas the LP and CP scored significantly higher than the NP on FBS, F, Fb, and Ds2. The content of the FBS, with several items from the Hypochondriasis (Hs) and Hysteria (Hy) Scales, appears to enhance the FBS' ability to detect the somatic overreporting often observed with personal injury claimants. The authors suggest that the FBS may be a useful index of symptom magnification when employed within a comprehensive assessment of malingering in personal injury plaintiffs.
MMPI-2 Short Form: Psychometric Characteristics in a Neuropsychological Setting
Authors: Gass Carlton S. , Luis Cheryl A.
Published: March 2007

A 180-item short form of the MMPI-2 (MMPI-2-180) was recently developed by Dahlstrom and Archer and has been proposed for clinical use under special circumstances. This study investigated the psychometric characteristics of the MMPI-2-180 in order to delineate its strengths, limitations, and appropriate scope of clinical application. Using a neuropsychological referral sample (N = 205), we examined accuracy of the short-form as it pertains to the following (a) the prediction of basic scale scores and profile code types, (b) the identification of high-point scales, and (c) the classification of scores as pathological (T? 65) or normal range. The results indicate that the MMPI-2-180 provides an unreliable basis for predicting clinical code types, identifying the high-point scale, or predicting the scores on most of the basic scales. In contrast, scores on the MMPI-2-180 are accurate predictors of whether the full-scale scores fall within the pathological range (T? 65). These findings suggest that (a) standard interpretive procedures involving profile configuration should not be used, in most cases, with the 180-item short-form results, (b) properly interpreted, this shortened version provides potentially useful information regarding the probable presence of various problem areas, and (c) this information is very limited when contrasted with that obtained using the complete or abbreviated (i.e., 370 item) version of the MMPI-2.
The Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R):Validation with Clinical and Nonclinical Samples
Authors: Osman Augustine , Bagge Courtney L. , Gutierrez Peter M. , Konick Lisa C. , Kopper Beverly A. , Barrios Francisco X.
Published: March 2007

Past suicidal behaviors including ideation and attempts have been identified as significant risk factors for subsequent suicidal behavior. However, inadequate attention has been given to the development or validation of measures of past suicidal behavior. The present study examined the reliability and validity of a brief self-report measure of past suicidal behavior, the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R). Participants included psychiatric inpatient adolescents, high school students, psychiatric inpatient adults, and undergraduates. Logistic regression analyses provided empirical support for the usefulness of the SBQ-R as a risk measure of suicide to differentiate between suicide-risk and nonsuicidal study participants. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses indicated that the most useful cutoff scores on the SBQ-R were 7 for nonsuicidal samples, and 8 for clinical samples. Both the single SBQ-R Item 1 and SBQ-R total scores are recommended for use in clinical and nonclinical settings.
Neuropsychological Assessment of Children with Hearing Impairment on Trail Making, Tactual Performance, and Category Tests
Authors: Kelly Mark D.
Published: March 2007

The performance of 42 children with hearing impairment and a matched sample of 42 hearing peers was examined on the Category, Tactual Performance, and Trail Making tests. No quantitative differences were found on Trail Making Part A or total number of Category Test errors. Deaf subjects did have significantly greater response times to individual Category Test items, regardless of correctness of answer. Children with hearing impairment were also found to take longer on Trail Making Part B, although they performed well within normal limits. On the Tactual Performance Test, deaf children did slightly better than their matched hearing peers on total time and location. Notwithstanding, over-interpretation of statistical differences was cautioned against from a clinician's standpoint. The major finding of this research was that the performance of deaf children who have no additional handicapping conditions or impairments was similar to that of matched hearing controls.
Bias in the Use of Standard American Norms with Spanish Translations of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised
Authors: Demsky Yvonne I. , Mittenberg Wiley , Quintar Bady , Katell Alan D. , Golden Charles J.
Published: March 2007

Although most clinicians would readily agree that there is a need for Spanish translations and normative samples of major psychological tests because of the large number of individuals within the United States whose primary language is Spanish, there are in fact few well normed tests applicable to the Spanish-speaking client in the U.S. As a result, many clinicians administer cognitive tests normed on English-speaking American populations translated into Spanish, then interpret the test results using the standard American norms. The argument is generally made that such a procedure is a reasonable approximation and when cautiously interpreted can be useful. The present study investigated the impact of this practice by using the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R) on Spanish-speaking adults. A group of 50 normal Hispanic Americans aged 25 to 34 years were administered the WMS-R translated into Spanish. Results showed that using English-language standard norms resulted in Spanish-speaking normal individuals getting scores an average of 1 standard deviation below "average." These findings were present not only for verbal but for nonverbal tests as well. Based on these results we strongly argue against the clinical practice of using translations of English language tests without renorming and running new validity tests.
Shipley Institute for Living Scale and the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test as Screening Instruments for Intelligence
Authors: Bowers Timothy L. , Pantle Mark L.
Published: March 2007

This study assessed the comparability and acceptability of two tests used to screen for overall intelligence levels in adults. At issue is whether either of these two tests is preferable for a definable subject population. Participants drawn from college (n = 30) and forensic (n = 50) settings completed the Shipley Institute for Living Scale (SILS), the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (K-BIT), and the reading section of the Wide Range Achievement Test-Revised (WRAT-R). The correlation between the SILS IQ and the K-BIT IQ scores was .77 for the college sample and .83 for the forensic group, with no significant differences between SILS and K-BIT mean IQ scores within each sample. Reading level also was significantly correlated with SILS and K-BIT IQ scores for both groups. A preference for the SILS over the K-BIT was expressed by two overlapping groups: college students and above average readers, while a majority of the forensic sample and poorer readers chose the K-BIT. Although the SILS and K-BIT yield comparable IQ scores within a sample, clinicians may want to consider the subject's reading ability, educational history, and feelings and attitudes about the assessment situation in deciding which of these two IQ screening tests to utilize.
Comparability of Telephone and In-Person Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R (SCID) Diagnoses
Authors: Cacciola John S. , Alterman Arthur I. , Rutherford Megan J. , McKay James R. , May Denise Janssen
Published: March 2007

The SCID was administered twice, once by telephone and once in person (1 week later) to 41 college age men. For major depression (lifetime K = .64, current K = .66), results indicated good agreement. The lifetime occurrence estimate based on the telephone SCID diagnosis was lower than the in-person SCID estimate. Kappas for specific diagnoses were calculable for simple phobia (lifetime K = .47, current K = -.03) and social phobia (lifetime K = .29). Base rates were less than 10% for all individual diagnoses except lifetime major depression; therefore, the kappas may be unstable. For all diagnoses where there were any positive cases, percentages of negative agreement and specificity were high, whereas percentages of positive agreement and sensitivity were lower. Overall agreement was fair for specific lifetime diagnoses but poor for current diagnoses. These results suggest caution in assuming comparability of in-person and telephone SCID diagnoses. Circumstances under which a telephone SCID may be useful and ways to improve reliability are discussed.