bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Evaluation Techniques To Select Health Education Programs
Authors: Manning D. Thompson , Ensor Phyllis G.
Published: October 2009

Health educators often are faced with the job of selecting a new program to meet particular objectives. When one or more options is available, the selection process may involve the application of rather sophisticated evaluation skills whether or not the health educator is aware of the fact. By consciously applying evaluation techniques, health educators can increase the likelihood that a new program will meet their needs. The article provides guidelines for choosing an effective program by posing questions that normally are raised at the end of a program during the summative evaluation but are equally relevant at its beginning during the program selection stage. Seeking the answers to these questions before a program is implemented can contribute much toward ensuring the desired outcomes will be achieved.
How Peers Perceive the Female Adolescent Smoker
Authors: Germer Paulette , Miller Richard E.
Published: October 2009

Data were collected on peers' perceptions of two fictional 17‐year‐old females; one a smoker and the other a nonsmoker. A sample of 212 high school seniors completed a form of the personality profile questionnaire which contained a biographical sketch of either Laurie the smoker or Laurie the nonsmoker. Subjects rated the fictional characters on 30 personality traits. Findings suggested that peers perceived the personality traits of the female adolescent smoker more negatively than the nonsmoking counterpart. Recommendations are made for the application of the findings to adolescent smoking prevention and cessation programs.
Enriching Professional Preparation in School Health through International Study
Authors: O'Rourke Thomas W. , Macrina David
Published: October 2009

This article describes how to develop, market, implement, and evaluate an international health education travel study course. The experiences described reflect an international travel study tour of England and Scotland conducted by the authors with 25 undergraduate and graduate students. The trip enhanced both the appreciation and professional knowledge of the students of a variety of perspectives in the health area. International study provides unique opportunities for student development and contributes significantly to the quality of professional preparation of school health personnel. These experiences complement traditional professional preparation programs and can result in improved health instruction and health services in schools.
Health Variables and School Achievement
Authors: Brown Jane O. , Grubb Sylvia B. , Wicker Tommie E. , O'Tuel Frances S.
Published: October 2009

Students who failed the Cognitive Skills Assessment Battery (CSAB) at the beginning of first grade were compared to those who passed on health factors, health history, family characteristics, socioeconomic factors, health ratings by the classroom teacher and the school nurse, and achievement on the Basic Skills Assessment Program (BSAP) at the end of first grade. Significant differences were found on family characteristics, birth history, and health ratings. Only ear problems were significantly related to the academic variables. Health problems were found to be moderately related to academic variables. This relationship is influenced by family socioeconomic variables.
The Self‐Care Motivation Model: Theory and Practice in Healthy Human Development
Authors: Horowitz Leonard G.
Published: October 2009

Effective health education and behavior motivation programs are needed to promote the compliance of children and young adults with preventive health care practices. Health promotion and primary prevention programs must consider the entire individual as well as his or her environment if positive behavior changes are to be maintained. This paper introduces an innovative model for self‐care motivation curriculum development. The model prescribes the use of value clarification, enhanced physical/cognitive/affective awareness, positive lifestyle choices, and self‐reinforcement skills training whereby individuals learn to become self‐motivated and reinforcing agents for their own primary preventive health practices. It is theorized that by developing self‐care and self‐regulation skills, students will achieve and maintain higher levels of wellness, thus improving the quality of their lives and ensuring healthy human development.
Evaluation of the North Carolina Risk Reduction Program for Smoking and Alcohol
Authors: Dignan Mark B. , Block Geoffrey D. , Steckler Allan , Cosby Meredith
Published: October 2009

Seventh grade students in two school systems in rural North Carolina were subjects for a program designed to reduce health risks associated with use/abuse of tobacco and alcohol. One school system was located in the central area of the state, and the other in the western mountains. Both groups were assessed before and after introduction of novel teaching programs dealing with alcohol and tobacco. Knowledge about smoking and alcohol increased in both sites (p < .05). Attitudes toward alcohol did not change. Attitudes toward smoking eroded in both sites, with attitudes at one site showing a severe erosion (p < .05). Smoking education in these communities may have conflicted strongly with ambient attitudes toward smoking, eliciting a “boomerang” effect.
Emotions and Obesity Among Mexican‐American Children
Authors: Guinn Bobby
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this study was to determine what relationships, if any, existed between high levels of body fat and emotional motivations for eating among Mexican‐American children. Subjects (N = 177) were drawn from children aged 10–14 years who participated in the National Youth Sports Program in the Lower Rio Grande Valley region of Texas. Data were gathered through a self‐report instrument dealing with emotional motivators involved in eating and through individual anthropometric measurements. Data analysis revealed that for the boys, a significant relationship existed between high percent body fat and the emotional motivation of stimulation. Handling and craving motivators were significantly related to high body fat for girls.
Physical, Psychological, Social, and Lifestyle Differences Among Adolescents Classified According to Cigarette Smoking Intention Status
Authors: Tucker Larry A.
Published: October 2009

This study was conducted to determine the extent to which multiple physical, psychological, social, and lifestyle measures differ among high school males classified according to cigarette smoking intention status including nonintenders, mild intenders, and strong intenders. The Physical Performance Test for California, to measure six traits of physical fitness and Cattell's 16PF Questionnaire to assess manifold dimensions of personality were administered to 386 high school males. Self‐concept was measured by Rosenberg's Self‐esteem Scale and body build was assessed using Tucker's Perceived Somatotype Scale and the Body Mass Index. Data relative to marital status of parents, exercise experience, church attendance, participation in athletics, alcohol drinking habits, television viewing behavior, intention to attend college, dating behavior, as well as general demographic information and intention to smoke cigarettes were assessed by a written questionnaire. Results indicated that nonintenders were significantly more self‐confident, intelligent, emotionally stable, moralistic, conservative, group oriented, self‐controlled, relaxed, and more likely to respond in a socially desirable manner than were strong intenders. Nonintenders reported less dating, less television viewing, less alcohol consumption, and perceived themselves as and were determined to be less obese than strong intenders. Nonintenders also reported greater intentions to attend college, greater varsity athletic participation, were more likely to be residing with their natural mothers, and were more physically fit than were strong intenders. Possible health education and youth smoking prevention strategies are discussed.
School‐Based Health Research Funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Authors: Stone Elaine J.
Published: October 2009

This paper presents a brief overview of the trends in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding for school‐based research and describes the school‐based research initiatives for cardiovascular health promotion and disease prevention at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Currently, 15 cardiovascular school‐based research studies are funded at the NHLBI. A summary table and a brief description are provided for each study including the name of the investigator, the name of the institute awarded the grant, the funding period, grade levels and racial/ethnic groups in each study, intervention components, research design, outcome measures, and a capsule of reported results.
Determining School Programming Needs of Special Population Groups: A Study of Asthmatic Children
Authors: O'Neil Sharon Lund , Barysh Noah , Setear Stanley J.
Published: October 2009

A study of the 4,382 children in the New Milford (Connecticut) Public School System was conducted to determine if upper respiratory conditions and other health problems may be related to school performance. Seven percent of the 4,036 respondents were found to be asthmatic. Correlations of school‐related factors for 61 of 286 students who had high absenteeism did not appear to be dependent upon asthma for any identified health problem. As absenteeism increased, student grades decreased. Achievement testing in math and reading was related positively to IQ and appeared to be unaffected by absenteeism from school. On the basis of this study, special education programming was not recommended for the target population; however, parents and school personnel are much more aware of physical, emotional, and mental health problems and their possible implications for school performance.
High School Students' Long‐term Retention of Sex Education Information
Authors: Thomas Lucinda L. , Long Suzanne E. , Whitten Kathleen , Hamilton Beverly , Fraser Joanne , Askins Ronna V.
Published: October 2009

Ninth grade students in a rural South Carolina school were pretested about sexuality information, completed a 12‐unit reproductive health course in eight months, and were posttested. A control group received the same pretest and posttest. Both groups were retested after the 10th and 11th grades and mean scores were calculated and compared. The difference between the experimental group's pretest and posttest mean scores was 8.49 (p < .001); the difference between the control group's pretest and posttest mean scores was 1.0 (p = .003). The experimental group's mean score remained at least 5.2 points higher (p < .001) than the control group's score on the same test one and two years after the course. Comparison of the mean gain between the pretest and posttest scores, and between the pretest and fourth test scores, confirmed the results obtained by mean test scores. The test scores indicated that the knowledge of the experimental students increased significantly and was sustained for two years. Their scores remained significantly higher than those of the control group on the posttest, and on tests one and two years later.
Questionnaire Research into Health‐related Behavior in the United Kingdom
Authors: Balding John
Published: October 2009

Health Education is concerned with more than medical health. It embraces the social context of the individual and is inseparable from personal and social development. A questionnaire developed in the United Kingdom to obtain health‐related behavior profiles has been completed by 45,000 young people. The results are being used by schools to aid internal curriculum development, and they constitute an extensive data bank for further research. Cross‐cultural use of the instrument may foster profitable exchanges of information both at the school and research levels.
The Impact of Instructional Experience and the Effects of Cumulative Instruction
Authors: Connell David B. , Turner Ralph R.
Published: October 2009

Two substudies were conducted within the School Health Education Evaluation (SHEE) to assess implementation practices and cumulative effects. In both studies, special samples were identified that permitted independent analysis of contributing factors. For the implementation study, teachers who had taught only one year were assessed in their second year to determine what changes they made during implementation and how those changes were related to classroom performance. Teachers taught significantly fewer hours, fewer components of the curriculum, and made more changes. However, the classroom performance, compared with the first year, improved for both knowledge and attitude with a marginal trend toward improvement in self‐reported practices. These results suggest that teachers became both more efficient and effective in the second iteration. The cumulative effects study tracked children through different levels of exposure to health instruction across two consecutive grade levels. Using partial classrooms as the unit of analysis, the results revealed that for knowledge, attitudes, and self‐reported practices, exposure to two units of School Health Curriculum Project (SHCP) were more effective than one which was, in turn, more effective than no exposure. Analysis of self‐reported smoking practices indicated cumulative program effectiveness in reducing both current smoking and future intent to smoke.
Appropriate Use of Health Risk Appraisals with School‐age Children
Authors: Petosa Rick , Hyner Gerald , Melby Christopher
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Health Risk Appraisals (HRAs) use personal risk assessment as an educational approach to encourage adoption of positive health‐related behavior. An individual's behavior and health history are compared to morbidity and mortality tables to estimate a level of personal risk. Current trends suggest HRAs will continue to be popular with school health educators. Appropriate use of HRAs requires an understanding of the assumptions, interpretations, and limitations of these instruments. This article reviews the development, validity, and reliability of HRA methodology. The educational usefulness of HRAs designed for school‐age populations is examined. Recommendations are offered to optimize the instructional benefits of HRAs while minimizing potential deficiencies.
Smoking Policies of Secondary Schools in Arizona
Authors: Rashak Nancy E. , Olsen Larry K. , Spears Alice K. , Haggerty James M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The cigarette smoking policies of all accredited secondary schools in Arizona (N = 169) were analyzed in this study. One hundred sixty principals (94.7%) responded to a 16–item questionnaire. Data collected included the existence of a written smoking policy, how students, faculty/staff, and visitors were informed of the policy, the extent to which smoking was permitted on school grounds, the availability of smoking cessation programs and who facilitated those programs, and the inclusion of health education in the school curriculum. Findings indicated a trend toward prohibiting student smoking both during and outside of school hours and restricting faculty/staff smoking to designated areas. However, penalties were imposed only for student violation of the policy. Few schools offered smoking cessation programs and no major differences existed in policy components by school size or the existence of a written policy or health education program. Recommendations to develop or revise smoking policies for secondary schools are offered.
Health‐related Content of Selected Sunday Comic Strips
Authors: Sofalvi Alan J. , Drolet Judy C.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The appearance of health‐related topics in selected comic strips, how often they appeared, and in which comic strips health‐related topics appeared most often were examined in this study. Sunday comic strips from the 1956, 1968, 1972, and 1980 editions of the St. Louis Globe‐Democrat and St. Louis Post‐Dispatch comprised the study data base. Data recorded from the comic strips included name of strip, author, frequency and percentage of health‐related categories, comic strip type, demographics of comic strip characters, and setting and situation of health‐related topics. A total of 9,871 comic strips was analyzed. The Illness, Gender Roles, and Safety categories contained the most comic strips with health‐related topics. Male characters appeared twice as often as females. Adults appeared more often than teens and children; the home was the most common setting.
Dissemination of Community Health Promotion Programs: The Fargo‐Moorhead Heart Health Program
Authors: Murray David M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Dissemination often is the neglected phase of the development and distribution cycle. While attention has focused on developing and testing new health education and health promotion programs, relatively little effort has been placed on studying how the programs can be disseminated. This paper reviews the dissemination process, identifies factors critical to successful dissemination, uses examples from a community‐based heart disease prevention study to illustrate how health promotion programs can be disseminated across a community, and suggests ways these methods might be applied to a community‐based approach to adolescent drug use prevention.
Mass Media Linkages with School‐based Programs for Drug Abuse Prevention
Authors: Flay Brian R.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The most appropriate role the media can play in preventing drug abuse is the dissemination of school‐based approaches of proven efficacy. In this paper, that statement is justified from theoretical and empirical perspectives. Suggestions for putting it into practice are offered. Review of the theoretical perspectives of Cartwright, Lazarsfeld and Merton, and Katz suggests that effective uses of mass media for drug abuse prevention must ensure adequate dissemination, maximize positive attention by the target audience (selectivity), encourage positive interpersonal communication, and maximize the principles of monopolization, canalization, and supplementation. Several major ways in which mass media programming can be linked with school‐based or community‐based programming to achieve these objectives are suggested. Mass media programs are seen as means to improve acceptance of school‐based prevention programs by parents. Conversely, schools are seen as playing a crucial role in increasing exposure to media prevention programming, especially if it is an inherent component of a classroom curriculum, and increasing and improving interpersonal discussion about the issues, between students, between students and teachers, and particularly between students and parents.
National School Health Day in Tunisia
Authors: Mheni Hedi
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Through combined efforts of the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of National Education, a National School Health Day has been observed for the past several years in Tunisia. Held the third Tuesday in February, features of the day include selecting a theme, conducting a poster contest, preparing instructional material for teachers, and providing information for a national media campaign. National and provincial officials support the day by visits to schools.
Application of the Role Delineation Project “Framework” to a Professional Preparation Program
Authors: Bruess Clint E. , Hendricks Charlotte M. , Poehler David L. , Redford Jeanette
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Using the Framework for the Development of Competency‐based Curricula for Entry Level Health Educators, the health education faculty at the University of Alabama at Birmingham reviewed and modified their under‐graduate health education professional preparation program. Efforts focused on the five steps of preparation and study, review and organization of Framework subcompetencies, organization of Framework subcompetencies into potential courses, placement of objectives for courses, and revision of schedule and sequence for professional preparation courses. The process produced seven core courses to be required of all health education majors. A master list of subcompetencies and objectives also was developed. Faculty perceived several benefits from participating in the project. (J Sch Health 1987;57(4):147–149)
Prenatal Education for Pregnant Adolescents
Authors: Timberlake Bobbi , Fox Robert A. , Baisch Mary Jo , Goldberg Barbara D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Providing services to pregnant adolescents poses a unique challenge for health professionals. Several programs have emerged tailored specifically to this special population. Prenatal education is an integral component of these programs. This paper describes prenatal education classes offered at Teen Pregnancy Service, including special modifications required to meet the learning needs of participants. Outcome data provided for 66 pregnant teens show significant changes in prenatal knowledge following the class series. Information is included about the teens' backgrounds, their perceptions regarding potential problems infants may experience, and how they remembered being reared by their parents.
Toward Some Principles of School Nursing
Authors: Collis June L. , Dukes Carol A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: An examination of the school nursing role based on four principles covering provision of health care, the nurse as a source of knowledge, the school as a health promoting community, and a team approach which acknowledges parents as partners is presented.
Perceived Barriers To Exercise Among Adolescents
Authors: Tappe Marlene K. , Duda Joan L. , Ehrnwald Patricia M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:In this study, the authors identify differences in barriers to exercise among high school students (n = 236) according to gender and self‐reported levels of physical activity. Major barriers to exercise were “time constraints,” “unsuitable weather,” “school and schoolwork,” and “lack of interest or desire.” Univariate ANOVAs revealed adolescent males had significantly higher scores than females for “use of alcohol and drugs” and “having a girlfriend,” while “time constraints” was a significantly greater barrier to exercise among females. Discriminant analyses indicated the barriers of “having a girlfriend” and “use of alcohol and drugs” also distinguished highly active males from highly active females. Results are discussed and suggestions are offered concerning how to reduce perceived barriers to exercise among adolescents.(J Sch Health 1989;59(4):153–155)
Risk Reduction Through Comprehensive Cancer Education: The American Cancer Society Plan for Youth Education
Authors: Corcoran Ruth Donnelly , Portnoy Barry
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The American Cancer Society (ACS) Plan for Youth Education for the Year 2000 is discussed in consideration of other health initiatives such as the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services' Objectives for the Nation and the National Cancer Institutes' Cancer Control Objectives for the Year 2000. Objectives of the ACS Plan are detailed with corresponding data sources to monitor progress. The Plan is designed to serve as a framework for ACS program planning, implementation, and evaluation in substance use, nutrition and eating patterns, cancer — early detection, cancer — the disease, and the environment. Justification for selecting the priority program areas also is described.
Substance Abuse Curricula vs. School Drug Policies
Authors: Goodstadt Michael S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Schools are attempting to reduce substance abuse by implementing policies related to use of alcohol and other drugs in school settings. A review of current trends in adolescent substance use, together with research concerning effectiveness of alcohol and drug education and the impact of legal deterrence, indicate that: 1) neither educational nor school policy strategies by themselves are likely to effectively prevent use and abuse; 2) to be effective, education and policies must acknowledge and incorporate clear statements of community norms about alcohol and drug use; 3) to be effective, educational and policy strategies must complement and reinforce each other; and 4) education and policies must acknowledge and reinforce the positive behavior of the large number of students who do not use or abuse alcohol and other drugs.
Dental Pit and Fissure Sealants: Implications for School Health Personnel
Authors: McCormack‐Brown Kelli R. , Clark Barbara J. , McDermott Robert J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: While tooth decay among schoolchildren has declined in recent years, 95% of all schoolchildren still experience tooth decay. School‐based fluoride rinse programs have made a significant contribution to the decrease in tooth decay. Pit and fissure sealants, one other preventive dentistry measure, also fight tooth decay. A pit and fissure sealant placed on the chewing surfaces of permanent molars acts as a barrier and protects caries‐prone areas of the teeth. For sealants to be effective, it is important that school health educators, nurses, and administrators have the dental health knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about school‐based dental sealant programs. Examples of successful programs are discussed.
Medically Uninsured Children in the United States: A Challenge to Public Policy
Authors: Oberg Charles N.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article is an examination of the nature and extent of the problem presented by medically uninsured children in the United States. First, the characteristics of the uninsured population are explored with a description of how age, family income, and employment status disproportionately affect families with children. Second, the Medicaid program and its historically inadequate response to this growing problem of uninsured children is examined. Third, the relationship between insurance status and the health and development of children is discussed. Finally, recent public policy initiatives that have been enacted or proposed to address this inequity in the present health care system are reviewed with a recommendation to establish a “Universal Maternal and Child Health Program.” (J Sch Health. 1990;60(10):493–500)
Evaluation of the Coalition Index: A Guide to School Health Education Materials
Authors: Smith Dennis W. , Howell Keith A. , McCann Kathleen M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This evaluation examined the diffusion of an innovation entitled the Coalition Index: A Guide to School Health Education Materials. After distributing the Index to a sample of school district health coordinators (n = 39), interviews were completed with 92% of coordinators about their perceptions of the Index and their concern for organizing health resources within their professional role. A one‐year follow‐up interview was conducted to determine levels of implementation and diffusion. Coordinators responded favorably to the Index as an innovation. Concern scores were limited to those relating to self‐management and task‐management. Moreover, concern scores demonstrated significant, positive associations (p < .01) with current use of the Index, and 49% of coordinators were users of the innovation one year after introduction. Results are discussed as they relate to diffusion of innovation stages.
A Process Evaluation of the District of Columbia “Know Your Body” Project
Authors: Taggart Virginia S. , Bush Patricia J. , Zuckerman Alan E. , Theiss Patricia K.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A process evaluation was conducted of the effectiveness of the “Know Your Body” curriculum in reducing coronary heart disease risk factors among black elementary and junior high school students. The evaluation, part of a five‐year longitudinal study, linked effectiveness of teachers' implementation with student outcomes and identified program weaknesses during implementation. Teachers with higher effectiveness scores had significantly more favorable student outcomes in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, HDL cholesterol, HDL/cholesterol ratio, serum thiocyanate, and fitness. Of 82 teachers, 38 (46%) had scores reflecting effective teaching. Lack of time and commitment and inadequate use of the behavioral teaching approach demanded by the curriculum contributed most to implementation failure. Teachers as insufficient role models emerged as an important factor. Future research needs appropriate reinforcement of teacher participation and measurement of the en vironmental factors and personal teacher characteristics that may affect program implementation. School health education programs need an intensive training component that will enable teachers to adopt behavioral teaching approaches, promote teacher's examination and change of their personal risk factors, and stress the classroom dynamic of teachers as role models.
Federal Republic of Germany: Perspectives in School Health
Authors: Glaser‐Moller Nathalie , Greiser Eberhard , Korte Wolfgang , Rieger‐Ndakorerwa Gudrun
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In the Federal Republic of Germany, responsibilities for health and education are held by the 11 German states. Particularly in the health system, a number of tasks are delegated to private organizations under governmental control. In this review, general characteristics of both the public health and education systems are delineated. An overview of school health programs, including instruction, health services, environment, and school‐community relations, and school‐based research, also are presented.
Recruitment and Retention of Schools Participating in School Health Research
Authors: Petosa Rick , Goodman Robert M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The quality of school health research projects can be enhanced by directing attention to recruitment and retention of schools. Successful recruitment plans go beyond research considerations to address political, economic, educational, and organizational needs of the school setting. Based on recent research, a taxonomy of decision‐making procedures characteristic of school districts is presented. The taxonomy provides a framework for designing effective recruitment and retention strategies. (J Sch Health. 1991;61(10):426–429)
A National Survey on Pediatric Training and Activities in School Health
Authors: Black Jeffrey L. , Nader Philip R. , Broyles Shelia L. , Nelson Julie A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: National trends in school health practice and training were assessed 10 years after the report of the 1978 American Academy of Pediatrics Task Force on Pediatric Education. A questionnaire was sent to 2,237 randomly selected AAP Fellows and was returned by 1,068 (48%). Seventy‐seven percent of practicing pediatricians reported involvement in some type of school‐based or school consultant activity. Those having residency training in school health and those practicing in rural areas were most likely to be involved. The most common types of activity were school‐based pre‐athletic exams (56%), consultant to special education placement (26%), and game/event physician (23%). Pediatricians were paid for 20% of sports‐related school consultation and 25% of nonsports school health activities. Didactic or clinical training in school health was offered during residency to 19%. Specific didactic topics in school health included learning and attention deficit disorders (32%), physician role in health education (15%), and sports medicine (12%). Preathletic participation exams were the most commonly performed school health activity during residency (23%), followed by serving as a school consultant (11%), and attending an individual education plan meeting (7%). Most pediatricians engaged in school health activities. However, they did so without preparation during residency and without payment for their services.
The Midfield High School Safety Belt Incentive Program
Authors: Wojtowicz G. Greg , Peveler Linda A. , Eddy James M. , Waggle Susan B. , Fitzhugh Eugene C.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Motor vehicle accidents constitute the leading cause of death among children and youth ages 15–24. The Year 2000 Health Objectives for the Nation call for reduction in fatalities in this population through increasing occupant restraint measures. This article provides an overview of how one school district developed a school and community safety bell incentive program to increase safety belt use among high school students. The intervention program followed a seven‐step process, involving community leaders, school officials, students, and local law enforcement personnel in its design, implementation, and evaluation. Local merchants and the Alabama Dept. of Health donated program incentives. Measurement of safety belt use among the target population revealed increased use throughout the program.
Promoting Health Through A Developmental Analysis of Adolescent Risk Behavior
Authors: Curtis Susan
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Adolescents are the only U.S. population group not to improve morbidity and mortality since 1960. Social and behavioral etiologies of adolescent morbidity and mortality are best addressed in schools, since health care providers rarely are seen by teen‐agers for other than organic health complaints. The relevance of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development for adolescent risk‐taking and their attendant health problems are discussed. Recognizing adolescent risk‐taking as a means of achieving autonomy and identity, nurses and health educators can intervene to promote health‐enhancing alternatives to achieve those ends. Social learning theory provides a basis for interventions to personalize the curricula, change behaviors, and shape the environment.
Dietary Risk Assessment for Cardiovascular Disease Among Central Maine Adolescents
Authors: White Adrienne A. , Klimis‐Tavantzis Dorothy J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Dietary risk for cardiovascular disease was assessed in 97 adolescents enrolled in health classes in two high schools in rural, central Maine, using three‐day food records and written questionnaires of self‐perceived food practices and cardiovascular nutrition knowledge. Mean percent of kilocalories from fat was 36% for both males and females. Compared to American Heart Association guidelines, 80% males and 73% females had more than 30% kilocalories from fat; 37% males and 16% females had dietary cholesterol intakes above 300 milligrams. More than 50% of males but less than 25% of females had sodium intakes greater than 3,000 milligrams. Mean dietary fiber intake of females (6 ± 4 grams) was significantly lower than the fiber intake of males (11 ± 8 grams). During adolescence, greater emphasis should be placed on modifying food behaviors that may be detrimental to heart health if continued into adulthood. Individualization provided within nutrition education curricula is necessary to meet the needs presented by differences in gender and variation among adolescents.
Ten Unanswered Questions Regarding Comprehensive School Health Promotion
Authors: Resnicow Ken , Cherry Jessica , Cross Donna
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The past two decades witnessed dramatic growth in support for comprehensive school health promotion. Yet, many questions about its effectiveness and feasibility remain unanswered. This article poses several research and policy questions, the answers to which may help to shape the future of school health programs in this country.
Reactions Among Dutch Youth Toward People with AIDS
Authors: Schaalma Herman P. , Petesr Louk , Kok Gerjo
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: AIDS education emphasizing personal responsibility toward AIDS‐inducing behavior might enhance negative reactions to people with AIDS. This study, based on Weiner's attributional theory of motivation and emotion, addressed this dilemma by reporting data from a sample of 1,018 Dutch secondary school students. Results support the reasoning that emphasizing personal responsibility, and consequently personal controllability, increases negative reactions to people with AIDS. In addition to causal attributions, however, AIDS knowledge and attitudes toward homosexuality also related significantly to reactions to people with AIDS. To prevent negative reactions to people with AIDS, the subject of homosexuality should be dealt with before AIDS education is provided. AIDS education should address the impossibility of HIV infection by daily interactions, and the meaning and consequences of being seropositive.
Prevalence and Sociobehavioral Correlates of Tobacco Use Among Hispanic Children: The Tobacco Resistance Activity Program
Authors: Morris G.S. Don , Vo Anthony N. , Bassin Stanley , Savaglio David , Wong Nathan D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: To examine tobacco use patterns and its sociobehavioral correlates among Hispanic in‐school youth, a tobacco use and knowledge survey was administered to 660 children from fourth through sixth grade classes, of which 69% (n = 453) were of Hispanic origin. Male Hispanics were more exposed to previous tobacco use (38% vs. 20%, p < .01), reported more current smoking, had more smoking friends, received more cigarette offers, and wanted to try a cigarette compared to females (all p < .05). Also, more previous alcohol use was noted in the previous tobacco users, indicating its potential as a “gateway drug.” From multivariate analyses, being offered cigarettes was the strongest environmental indicator of previous tobacco usage, followed by having adult smokers in the house, smoking friends, (all p < .01), and being around other smoking youth (p < .05). This study offers additional knowledge about factors that may cause Hispanic youth to initiate smoking, and suggests the need to address peer and social influences in school‐based substance abuse programs. (J Sch Health. 1993;63(9):391–396)
Gender Differences in Substance Use Among Mexican American School‐Age Children
Authors: Katims David S. , Zapata Jesse T.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study identified differences in gender between and among fourth, fifth, and sixth grade Mexican American students for use of four specific “minor” substances: cigarettes, beer, wine/liquor, and marijuana. Minor substances are believed to serve as a “gateway” to more intense and frequent use of minor and major substances. Students (N = 2,216; males 52% and females 48%) were surveyed to ascertain information pertaining to their substance use. The chi‐square statistic found significant gender differences at the fourth and fifth grade for use of minor substances. Patterns of initiation of minor substance use by gender and grade are discussed in the context of substance use stage theory. Overall, results support the need for further research emphasizing within group variations in the substance use of singular ethnic groups. (J Sch Health. 1993;63(9):397–401)
Program Management: A Necessary Component for the Comprehensive School Health Program
Authors: Davis Thomas M. , Allensworth Diane D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The definition of a comprehensive school health program changed dramatically in the 20th century: Publication of the book Health Education, in the 1920s, provided a vision of health education as an instructional experience. In the 1950s, the concept of school health programs grew with addition of components in health services and a healthy school environment. An expanded concept of comprehensive school health programs now includes the components of physical education, food services, counseling, staff health promotion programs, and involvement of parents and the community. The next step involves inclusion of a “focusing'' or “integrating” component that unifies elements of the comprehensive school health model. This component provides leadership and management to ensure that potential benefits of a comprehensive school health program are fully realized.
Successful Recruitment Strategies for School‐Based Health Promotion: Experiences from CATCH
Authors: Lytle Leslie A. , Johnson Carolyn C. , Bachman Kathryn , Wambsgans Kathleen , Perry Cheryl L. , Stone Elaine J. , Budman Susan
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School‐based research designs in the 1990s often require that a large number of schools be recruited to participate in studies. Therefore, effective recruitment and maintenance of schools becomes an important activity for ensuring the integrity of the study design. The Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH) is the largest school‐based health promotion research project yet undertaken; 96 schools (24 per field site) were successfully recruited and retained for this cardiovascular disease risk reduction project. This article describes general recruitment strategies used at the four CATCH sites, a description of how Social Learning Theory guided these activities, a discussion of logistical considerations, and recommended recruitment strategies for future school‐based research.
The Effect of Two Types of Teacher Training on Implementation of Smart Choices: A Tobacco Prevention Curriculum
Authors: Basen‐Engquist Karen , O'Hara‐Tompkins Nancy , Lovato Chris Y. , Lewis M. Jane , Parcel Guy S. , Gingiss Phyllis
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study examined the implementation phase of a four‐year research project to test the effectiveness of strategies to increase diffusion of Smart Choices, a school‐based tobacco prevention program. The impact on curriculum implementation of two approaches to teacher training are compared. School districts were randomly assigned to a live workshop training or video training condition. The outcome of the evaluation was teachers' implementation of Smart Choices Results show a lower proportion of video‐trained teachers implemented the curriculum, but overall completeness and fidelity of implementation for those teachers who did teach the curriculum were comparable for the two groups. Video‐trained teachers, however, were less likely to use brainstorming and student presentations/role plays, two of the methods prescribed by the curriculum. Implications of the results for teacher training are discussed.
High School Students' Perceptions of Nonconsensual Sexual Activity
Authors: Telljohann Susan K. , Price James H. , Summers Jodi , Everett Sherry A. , Casler Suzanne
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A total of 588 secondary students completed a 25‐item survey on perceptions regarding nonconsensual sexual activity. Subjects included an equal percentage of males and females and were predominately White (61%), freshmen (67%), and of lower academic achievement (<3.0 GPA = 57%). Females, African Americans, and those with low academic achievement were more likely to perceive that all or most of their same sex peers were having sex. African American students and those with low academic achievement were significantly more likely than White students and students with high academic achievement (>3.0 GPA) to perceive that all or most of their close friends were having sex. Females were more knowledgeable of nonconsensual sexual activity than were males. Significant differences existed on attitudes and behavioral intentions by gender, race, academic achievement, and perceived sexual activity of close friends.
Integrating School‐Based Health Centers into Managed Care in Massachusetts
Authors: Hacker Karen
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Contemporary school‐based health centers (SBHCs) face dwindling financial resources and pressures to maximize reimbursement. As managed care becomes the dominant system of health care financing, SBHCs must integrate their service delivery with managed care systems. In Massachusetts, through a combination of advocacy, state, and local collaboration, SBHCs successfully developed partnerships with managed care plans. Strategies include enhancing communication between SBHCs and health maintenance organizations, standardizing school‐based care, and mandating integration of services through state contract language. This article delineates the process that occurred and key elements necessary for developing these relationships. This experience is a valuable resource for other states and school‐based providers as Medicaid populations are funneled into managed care arrangements.
The Dartmouth Health Promotion Study: A Failed Quest for Synergy in School Health Promotion
Authors: McIntyre Lynn , Belzer Edwin G. , Manchester Lise , Blanchard Wade , Officer Suzanne , Simpson A. Catherine
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Dartmouth Health Promotion Study was a longitudinal, quasi‐experimental field study with a qualitative research arm, designed to learn whether coordinating school health instruction, health services, and a healthful environment enhanced the program's effect on the heart health and mental health of children. The research strategy — the Coordinated Approach — was applied to approximately 300 children in each of two cohorts in grades four to six attending nine trial schools; a further 600 children attended 10 comparison schools in Dartmouth and nine distal comparison schools. Although the qualitative analysis demonstrated that positive feelings were engendered in most areas of the study, when either the classroom or the individual was used as the unit of analysis, the Coordinated Approach did not have a more favorable effect on the heart or mental health of children than did the standard school health program. Thus, the effect of an existing school health program was not directly enhanced through coordinating its components.
Network Terms to Get You Through the 1990s
Authors: Stussman Barak
Published: October 2009

Editor's Note: This information was adapted from the fall 1995 issue of The ERIC Review. ERIC's role as an information provider on the Internet and various online services expanded significantly. Each week, more than 500 mail people send e‐mail to the AskERIC question‐answering service; another 25,000 visit the AskERIC Virtual Library, the National Parent Information Network, and the subject‐oriented Gopher and World Wide Web sites maintained by many ERIC clearinghouses. The National Center for Education Statistics estimates that nearly half of the nation's public schools have access to the Internet or another wide area network such as CompuService, America Online, or Prodigy. Sixty‐seven percent of public schools have plans to implement or update a wide area network. The fall 1995 issue of The ERIC Review is intended to help teacher educators, administrators, librarians, adult educators, and individual teachers introduce others to education resources on computer networks. It includes information about how teachers can learn to use telecomputing tools, a first‐person account of what happens when a teacher begins incorporating telecommunications in the classroom, and guidelines to help schools create policies for Internet use. Readers also will find a glossary of network terms, reading and resource organization lists, an overview of federal telecommunications initiatives related to education, and complete access information for ERIC‐sponsored network sites. For information about Educational Resources Information Center, including details on how to access the database or referral to one of 16 subject‐specific ERIC clearinghouses, call 800/LET‐ERIC, send e‐mail to acceric@inet.ed.gov, or browse the ERIC systems web pages at http:www.aspensys.comeric2welcome.html.