bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Selected School‐Based Conflict Resolution and Peer Mediation Projects
Authors: Powell Kenneth E. , Muir‐McClain Lois , Halasyamani Lakshmi
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Many U.S. schools are implementing curricula and other activities to reduce interpersonal violence among students. Most involve conflict resolution or peer mediation (CR/PM) training. Little is known about the effectiveness or manner of implementing these projects. This paper examines nine projects supported by four state health departments. Available data suggest some projects may modify youths' self‐reported attitudes about violent behavior, improve school discipline, and reduce absenteeism. The review also revealed considerable variation in implementation, especially in the role of professionally trained consultants and amount of teacher and student training. More attention should be paid to evaluating CR/PM projects. Some data suggest they may contribute positively to community efforts to reduce violence among youth, but insufficient information exists to know which projects best serve which students, and how projects should be implemented. Until consensus emerges, project personnel should carefully assess the implementation and impact of their activities. Routinely collected data, such as disciplinary actions, can be used for evaluation, often with only minor modification.
Feasibility of School‐Based Smoking Cessation Programs
Authors: Gillespie Amaya , Stanton Warren , Lowe John B. , Hunter Beth
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study obtained input from Australian student smokers approximately 15 years old, which may be useful in designing school‐based smoking cessation programs. The sample was analyzed by previous quitting experience and intentions to quit. The order of preference for assistance options and incentives for quitting was similar across all groups: however, those who previously attempted to quit (previous quitters) and those who intended to quit (intenders) in the future were significantly more likely than non‐quitters and non‐intenders to find assistance options for quitting acceptable. The potential for saving money emerged as an important variable in convincing all groups of smokers not to smoke, and using personal willpower and cutting down slowly were identified as important in actual attempts to quit. The need for programs to be free and for friends to be supportive also was evident across all groups.
Relationship Between Physical Activity Level and Cigarette, Smokeless Tobacco, and Marijuana Use Among Public High School Adolescents
Authors: Winnail Scott D. , Valois Robert F. , McKeown Robert E. , Saunders Ruth P. , Pate Russell R.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study analyzed the association between physical activity level and cigarette, smokeless tobacco, and marijuana use among a selected group of public high school students from South Carolina (N = 4,800). The 1993 CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey was used to collect self‐report information on physical activity, substance use, and other risk‐taking behaviors. Multiple logistic regression analysis for weighted data (SUDAAN) was used for data analysis. Adjusted analysis showed significant associations (p < .05) among White males for use of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and marijuana, where higher levels of physical activity were inversely associated to use of these substances. Results from the study substantiate the importance of physical activity for adolescents, and demonstrate the need for future research to clarify the causal relationship between physical activity and substance use behaviors.
Preventing Non‐Family Child Abductions: Are Children Aware They are Being Followed?
Authors: Stevenson Mark R. , Schieber Richard A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Australia, the United States, and other developed countries, offer elementary school programs that heighten childrens' awareness about the possibility of abduction. To examine the effectiveness of such programs, an investigation was conducted of the proportion of elementary school children previously taught about “stranger” abduction and who detected they were being followed. Fifteen children were observed on four separate occasions during a seven‐month period. Only 3% of the observations were detected by children. Several reasons are proposed for the poor detection rate, and recommendations for elementary school programs are made.
Gender Representation in Illustrations, Text, and Topic Areas in Sexuality Education Curricula
Authors: Beyer Christine E. , Ogletree Roberta J. , Ritzel Dale O. , Drolet Judy C. , Gilbert Sharon L. , Brown Dale
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A content analysis instrument was developed to examine differences in gender representation in sexuality education curricula. Fourteen middle school and high school curricula, published between 1985 and 1995, were examined. Variables included illustrations, noun/pronoun usage, and specific topics within the two categories of biological function and mutual interest. The study examined differences in gender representation in illustrations, photographs, cartoons, drawings, and text. Omission of sexuality topics related to gender also was examined. Little difference occurred within the text of the curricula in noun and pronoun usage. Illustrations were few in number, but showed greater female representation. Greater male representation occurred in topics related to drug use, sexual exploitation, sexual desire, and homosexuality. Topics with greater female representation included body image, diseases of the reproductive organs, and hygiene.
Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance—United States, 1995
Authors: Kann Laura , Warren Charles W. , Harris William A. , Collins Janet L. , Williams Barbara I. , Ross James G. , Kolbe Lloyd J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Priority health‐risk behaviors that contribute to the leading causes of mortality, morbidity, and social problems among youth and adults often are established during youth, extend into adulthood, and are interrelated. The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) monitors six categories of priority health‐risk behaviors among youth and young adults: behaviors that contribute to unintentional and intentional injuries, tobacco use, alcohol and other drug use, sexual behaviors, unhealthy dietary behaviors, and physical inactivity. The YRBSS includes both a national school‐based survey conducted by CDC and state and local school‐based surveys conducted by state and local education agencies. This report summarizes results from the national survey, 35 state surveys, and 16 local surveys conducted among high school students from February through May 1995.

In the United States, 72% of all deaths among school‐age youth and young adults result from four causes: motor vehicle crashes, other unintentional injuries, homicide, and suicide. Results from the 1995 YRBSS suggest that many high school students practice behaviors that may increase their likelihood of death from these four causes: 21.7% had rarely or never used a safety belt, 38.8% had ridden with a driver who had been drinking alcohol during the 30 days preceding the survey, 20.0% had carried a weapon during the 30 days preceding the survey, 51.6% had drunk alcohol during the 30 days preceding the survey, 25.3% had used marijuana during the 30 days preceding the survey, and 8.7% had attempted suicide during the 12 months preceding the survey. Substantial morbidity and social problems among school‐age youth and young adults also result from unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection. YRBSS results indicate that in 1995, 53.1% of high school students had experienced sexual intercourse, 45.6% of sexually active students had not used a condom at last sexual intercourse, and 2.0% had ever injected an illegal drug. Among adults, 65% of all deaths result from three causes: heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Most of the risk behaviors associated with these causes of death are initiated during adolescence. In 1995, 34.8% of high school students had smoked cigarettes during the 30 days preceding the survey, 39.5% had eaten more than two servings of foods typically high in fat content during the day preceding the survey, and only 25.4% had attended physical education class daily. YRBSS data are being used nationwide by health and education officials to improve national, state, and local policies and programs designed to reduce risks associated with the leading causes of mortality and morbidity. YRBSS data also are being used to measure progress toward achieving 21 national health objectives and one of eight National Education Goals.
Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services: A Role for the School Nurse
Authors: Allensworth Diane DeMuth , Bradley Beverly
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Morbidity and mortality for today's adolescent are linked most often to complex behavioral and psychosocial risk factors than in the past. The American Medical Association has developed Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services (GAPS) to assist the primary health practitioner in deterring adolescents from participating in health‐debilitating behaviors and to promote health‐enhancing behaviors. Studies have affirmed usefulness of the GAPS protocol in the private practitioner's office and in the school‐based clinic. This paper explores the possibility of using the traditional school nurse to deliver the GAPS in collaboration with school and community professionals. Issues explored include identifying students for he screening, administering the survey, triage of students, interdisciplinary and interagency collaboration, confidentiality, barriers, and time constraints. (J Sch Health. 1996;66(8):281–285)
Preliminary Development of the School Health Intensity Rating Scale©
Authors: Burt Charlotte J. , Beetem Nela , Iverson Carol , Hertel Victoria , Peters Donna Ambler
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Nursing consultants from the states included in the Mountain Plains Regional Resource Center, U.S. Dept. of Education, identified the need for a scale to classify student health status. The classification would allow schools to determine the level of needed student health services. This identified need led to the development of the School Health Intensity Rating Scale (SHIRS)” in partnership with Donna A. Peters, RN, PhD, FAAN, developer of the Community Health Intensity Rating Scale (CHIRS). The consultants and school nurses participating in the project piloted the scale and a scale research project is now in progress. (J Sch Health. 1996;66(8): 286‐290)
Developing Culturally Sensitive HIV/AIDS and Substance Abuse Prevention Curricula for Native American Youth
Authors: Baldwin Julie A. , Rolf Jon E. , Johnson Jeannette , Bowers Jeremy , Benally Christine , Trotter Robert T.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In 1990, researchers and health care professionals joined with members of several southwestern Native American communities to form an HIV/AIDS and substance abuse prevention partnership. Culturally sensitive approaches to theory‐based interventions were developed into highly replicable, structured, school‐based and community‐based intervention programs. Process evaluations indicated high levels of program acceptance and fidelity. Outcome evaluations demonstrated significant positive preventive intervention effects among participants. This article reports how NAPPASA school prevention curricula were developed and discusses three critical processes in developing these successful curricula: 1) selection of integrative theory to address the multi‐dimensional antecedents of HIV/AIDS and substance abuse among Native Americans, 2) use of ethnographic methodology to obtain intensive input from target groups and community members to ensure cultural and developmental sensitivity in the curriculum, and 3) use of process and outcome evaluations of pilot and field trials to develop an optimal curriculum.
Peer‐Planned Social Activities for Preventing Alcohol Use Among Young Adolescents
Authors: Komro Kelli A. , Perry Cheryl L. , Murray David M. , Veblen‐Mortenson Sara , Williams Carolyn L. , Anstine Pamela S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Project Northland peer participation program tested the feasibility of involving students in the planning and promotion of alcohol‐free social activities for their peers and to determine whether such participation was associated with reduced alcohol use. The peer program was offered in 20 northeastern Minnesota schools when the study cohort was in seventh grade; students completed a survey in the beginning of sixth grade and at the end of sixth grade and seventh grade. Nearly 50% of the study cohort participated in the program. At the end of seventh grade, after controlling for confounders, an association was observed between student involvement with planning activities and a lower rate of alcohol use. This association was strongest among students who had reported alcohol use at the beginning of sixth grade. This cohort study suggests adolescent involvement in planning their own alcohol‐free activities may be an efficacious strategy to prevent or reduce the prevalence of alcohol use among youth. Future studies are warranted to evaluate this association using experimental research designs.
Patterns of Tobacco and Alcohol Use Among Sedentary, Exercising, Nonathletic, and Athletic Youth
Authors: Rainey Cheryl J. , McKeown Robert E. , Sargent Roger G. , Valois Robert F.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Through a statewide random design, 7,846 9th to 12th grade students in 81 South Carolina public schools were selected to complete the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Mantel‐Haenszel Chi‐Square, general linear models, and logistic regression were used to examine the relation between the independent variables of race, gender, and physical activity status with the dependent variables of tobacco and alcohol use while controlling for race, gender, and participation in physical education classes. The six physical activity levels ranged from sedentary nonathletes to athletes participating on two or more sports teams. Highly active athletes drank more frequently than did low‐activity nonathletes (p = .002) and sedentary nonathletes (p = .006), and they were more likely to hinge drink (p = .004). Athletic groups were less likely to smoke than were the nonathletic groups (p < .0001) with “sedentary nonathletes” the heaviest smokers of all groups. Athletes were more likely to use smokeless tobacco (p < .0001) than nonathletes although this difference disappeared when controlling for gender and race. This research supports other findings about prevalence of smokeless tobacco use among athletic youth. In addition, it reveals that athletic youth are at an increased risk of alcohol use and binge drinking. Possible factors such as the risk‐taking tendencies of team sport athletes should be investigated.
The Politics of School‐Based Programs Which Address Sexual Orientation
Authors: Rienzo Barbara A. , Button James , Wald Kenneth D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study examined both the content of school district programs related to sexual orientation, and the social and political determinants of these school programs. Data were collected from districts within all 126 U.S. communities with legal protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, and from a random sample of 129 U.S. jurisdictions without such legislation. Results showed that most school districts are not offering recommended program elements related to sexual orientation issues. Districts within localities with gay rights protection are doing more than those without. Although compositional factors account for some of the differences in educational efforts, a politically engaged constituency also made a major difference in school district efforts. To the extent that gays and lesbians served in local public office and mobilized to influence school elections, they were able to affect school programs and policies. (J Sch Health. 1996;66(1):33–40)
Using Focus Group Interviews to Understand School Meal Choices
Authors: James Delores C.S. , Rienzo Barbara A. , Frazee Carol
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Focus groups were used to examine adolescents' participation in school nutrition programs, their opinions about the meals served in these programs, and their suggestions for improving the meals. A pilot and four focus group interviews were conducted with ninth grade students in five geographically distinct regions of Florida. Male students and those from rural areas were more likely to participate in school meal programs than were females and those from suburban and urban areas. Students expressed intense dislike and distrust of school meals. School meals were criticized for taste, appearance, small serving sizes, and cost. Students overwhelmingly favored commercial food vendors serving lunch at school. Suggestions for improving school meals included improving the taste and appearance of food, offering a wider variety of foods, serving more fresh fruit and vegetables, lowering the price, increasing the serving sizes, teaching food service workers how to cook, and offering more condiments.
Gender Differences in Physical Activity and Determinants of Physical Activity in Rural Fifth Grade Children
Authors: Trost Stewart G. , Pate Russell R. , Dowda Marsha , Saunders Ruth , Ward Dianne S. , Felton Gwen
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study determined if gender differences in physical activity could be accounted for by differences in selected social‐cognitive determinants of activity behavior. Some 334 fifth grade, predominantly African‐American students provided information regarding after‐school physical activity and the hypothesized determinants of activity behavior. Boys reported significantly greater participation in vigorous (≥ 6 METs) and in moderate to vigorous (≥4 METs). Relative to girls, boys demonstrated higher levels of physical fitness, greater self‐efficacy in overcoming barriers to physical activity, greater amounts of television watching, and higher levels of participation in community sports and physical activity organizations. When mean physical activity scores for girls and boys were adjusted for the effects of these determinant variables, the significant gender difference in physical activity remained. However, adjustment for self‐efficacy in overcoming barriers and community sports reduced the gender gap by 5% and 7%, respectively. In contrast, adjustment for television watching increased the gender gap by about 8%. Results indicated perceived confidence in overcoming barriers to physical activity and participation in community physical activity programs are factors related to the gender difference in physical activity.
Is School Vision Screening Effective?
Authors: Yawn Barbara P. , Lydick Eva G. , Epstein Robert , Jacobsen Steven J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A population‐based cohort of all children entering kindergarten in a three‐year period (N = 2,938) was followed retrospectively from kindergarten through 12th grade to estimate incidence of abnormal school vision screening tests and rates of follow‐up by community ophthalmologists or optometrists. Overall 28% of children had at least one abnormal school vision screening test. Abnormal screening with referral increased from 1.2% of five‐year‐olds to 9.1% of 13‐year‐olds. Overall, 91% of children referred had further evaluation by eye care professionals. However, visits to an eye care professional often were delayed; median time was 0.8 years for children seeing an ophthalmologist and 1.8 years for children seeing an optometrist. Results support the continued use of simple visual acuity screening in schools. Consideration should be given to screening children beyond age 12 and developing methods to increase the rapidity of parental response to referral recommendations.
A Peer‐Led AIDS Prevention Program for Students in an Alternative School
Authors: O'Hara Peggy , Messick Barbara J. , Fichtner Ronald R. , Parris Don
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School‐based programs designed to measure health risk behavior and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have not addressed adequately the needs of adolescents outside of mainstream schools. In Florida, these youth represent a sizable proportion of the population and have been shown to be at increased risk for acquiring sexually transmitted diseases and human immunodeficiency virus. This article describes a peer‐led STD/HIV intervention for students in a dropout prevention program in Dade County, Florida. Trained peer counselor/educators (PCEs) led schoolwide activities and classroom sessions covering STD/HIV information, community health resources, communication and negotiation skills, and safer sex strategies. Teachers and students rated the PCEs effective in promoting discussion and serving as sources of information about AIDS and community health resources. Pre/post intervention questionnaire results demonstrated an increase in AIDS awareness and discussion among students as well as an increase in condom use. Based on this social influences approach, peer education appears to be a promising health education strategy for students in dropout prevention programs.
Community Reactions to Reproductive Health Care at Three School‐Based Clinics in Louisiana
Authors: Zeanah Paula D. , Morse Edward V. , Simon Patricia M. , Stock Mary , Pratt Jo Lynn , Sterne Sylvia
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Despite the growing success of school‐based health care during the past two decades, the issue of providing reproductive health care at school‐based health centers remains controversial. In this article, focus group data from three school‐based centers in Louisiana, each in different stages of development, demonstrates how the controversies about reproductive health may frame more general concerns about school‐based care. In addition, community readiness to address directly problematic sexual behavior relates not only to the specific needs and priorities of the community, but to recognition of the negative effect of the consequences of sexual behavior such as pregnancy, high drop out, and absenteeism rates on a community's educational, rather than social, goals and values.
The Ready‐to‐Learn Program: A School‐based Model of Nurse Practitioner Participation in Evaluating School Failure
Authors: Adams Eleanor , Shannon Amy R. , Dworkin Paul H.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Ready‐to‐Learn program, a school‐based initiative begun in 1994 in three inner‐city elementary schools in Hartford, Conn., provides medical input and medical‐educational collaboration in the evaluation and treatment of children experiencing learning and behavior problems. The program is staffed by two specially trained nurse practitioners, with consultation provided by pediatricians and a child psychologist. During its first year of operation, pediatric assessment was performed on 57 students at all three schools. Data analysis indicates that children were referred to the program for a broad range of concerns, that assessments were completed in a timely fashion, and that a variety of diagnoses were identified. Feedback from school personnel and parents suggests that the program offers a unique and valued pediatric perspective to the evaluation of school failure. Future plans include a more formal evaluation of the program's cost and effectiveness.
Functions of School Nurses and Health Assistants in U.S. School Health Programs
Authors: Fryer George E. , Igoe Judith B.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper reports results from a nationwide survey of a systematic random sample of school districts. Information obtained from 482 participating districts was used to contrast roles of nurses and health assistants in school health programs throughout the country. Most districts relied heavily on nursing personnel for technically involved clinical services, but often employed health assistants to administer medications and basic first aid. Litigation was somewhat more frequently filed regarding care provided by health assistants than care by nurses or classroom personnel. But in general, health assistants were performing satisfactorily, particularly in districts where registered nurses coordinated the services and activities of health program personnel. While use of health assistants increased the past three years, school nurses were not being displaced. Just 9% of districts had downsized their nursing staff during that period. Despite the modest expansion of nursing resources, nurses reportedly were underused in health education programs of most schools. (J Sch Health. 1996;66(2):55–58)
School‐Based Programs for Preventing Eating Disturbances
Authors: Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper describes a framework for involving schools in primary and secondary prevention of eating disturbances. The issues of why, what, who, and how are considered. Research on the prevalence and consequences of obesity, anorexia and bulimia nervosa, unhealthy dieting, and behaviors such as binge eating and purging indicates why prevention is necessary. Research on the etiology of eating disturbances also provided a basis for determining what factors need to be addressed. However, research has not adequately addressed the question of who should be targeted for prevention and how the topic of prevention should be approached. While different approaches to school‐based prevention programs are possible, a comprehensive school‐based program is recommended. Important components of a comprehensive program include staff training, classroom interventions, integration of relevant material into existing curriculum, individual counseling and small group work with high risk students, referral systems, opportunities for healthy eating, modifications within the physical education program, and outreach activities. This type of comprehensive program is based on an ecological model for health promotion and aims at the modification of both individual and environmental determinants of behavior. (J Sch Health. 1996;66(2):64–71)
Analysis of Children's Physical Activity and its Association with Adult Encouragement and Social Cognitive Variables
Authors: Biddle Stuart , Goudas Marios
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Little is known about possible determinants of children's participation in physical activity. In particular, the role of adults has not been clearly identified. This study investigated contemporary social cognitive variables, in combination with likely adult influence factors, in predicting intended and self reported vigorous physical activity for young adolescents. A questionnaire was administered to 147 boys and girls ages 13–14. Questions assessed physical activity levels, including vigorous activity, intention to take part in sports or vigorous physical activity, social cognitive variables, and adult encouragement of physical activity. A structural equation modeling analysis showed a good fit for a model in which vigorous physical activity was predicted by direct paths from adult encouragement and intention, with adult encouragement also predicting vigorous activity indirectly through perceived competence. Intention itself was predicted by adult encouragement and a task achievement goal orientation. (J Sch Health. 1996;66(2):75–78)
Teachers' Receptiveness and Comfort Teaching Sexuality Education and Using Non‐Traditional Teaching Strategies
Authors: Haignere Clara S. , Culhane Jennifer F. , Balsley Catherine M. , Legos Patricia
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article reports on the comfort level of 97 eighth grade teachers using non‐traditional leaching strategies in sexuality education classes. Most were comfortable teaching sexuality education and undeterred by external factors such as students' religious beliefs, lack of administrative support, or parental protest. However, a quarter to a third of teachers reported never or rarely using activities such as roleplays, small‐group discussions, and problem‐solving exercises. Multiple regression indicated that only gender was a significant predictor of such usage. The greatest perceived barriers to teaching sexuality education and using alternative teaching strategies were lack of materials, lack of time, and difficulty with facilitation under traditional classroom structure. Although more research is needed to better understand barriers to using alternative strategies, teachers in two focus groups (n = 19) suggested 1) restructuring classroom settings to match the demands of new teaching strategies, and 2) “experience appropriate” curricula.
Pro‐Innovation Bias: The Case of the Giant Texas SmokeScream
Authors: Smith Dennis W. , Zhang James J. , Colwell Brian
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A common approach to promoting improvements in school health instruction involves development and dissemination of new curricula and teaching materials. Ironically, potential effects of innovative materials on student outcomes and actual teacher instructional practices rarely are considered important in decisions concerning use of new material. This study examined the impact of a new curricular innovation, the Giant Texas SmokeScream (GTSS), on 512 middle grade students' knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intent about smoking. The data provided a basis for discussion of what Rogers labeled “pro‐innovation bias.” Data indicated the program had no effect on students. The GTSS program itself, although popular with schools, was questioned as being atheoretical in its approach to health education and ineffective in its outcomes. These data illustrate the need for programs to be based on sound theory and evaluated rigorously prior to general adoption. Additionally, program evaluations focused solely on student effects are insufficient in their assessment of adoption and implementation practices.
Recruitment Issues in School‐Based Research: Lessons Learned from the High 5 Alabama Project
Authors: Harrington Kathleen F. , Binkley Dianne , Reynolds Kim D. , Duvall Ruth C. , Copeland John R. , Franklin Frank , Raczynski James
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School‐based research requires a multi‐level recruitment process to ensure an adequate sample. This article describes the High 5 Alabama recruitment experience at four levels: district, school, classroom and individual. One hundred percent of 28 schools across three districts and 108 classroom teachers contacted agreed to participate. Moderate success (69%) at the individual level, which required active parental consent for the student and parent to participate, resulted in 1,698 student/parent participants. An examination of differences between participants and nonparticipants revealed under‐representation of a subsample of the population in the project sample. Suggestions obtained from project staff and teachers intended to enhance future school‐based recruitment strategies include enlistment of a district advocate; meeting with teachers to solicit support; using incentives with students and teachers; direct contact with parents; having teachers keep rosters of students returning consent forms; and tailoring recruitment strategies for specific subpopulations.
U.S. Public School Enrollment‐Based Health Insurance Initiatives and America's Uninsured
Authors: Romund Camilla M. , Farmer Frank L. , Tilford John M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article reviews current literature on school enrollment‐based health insurance programs underway or pending in the United States. This model of affordable family health insurance delivery was first proposed in a 1988 New England Journal of Medicine Sounding Board article, but only a few states ‐ Arkansas, Florida, New Hampshire, and Texas ‐ have begun public sector‐driven programs in the 1990s that use school enrollment as a pooling mechanism to purchase group insurance policies from the private sector. Public support of this model is strong, interest is currently growing, and other states, including North Carolina and Iowa, are exploring or have enacted legislation that supports establishment of school enrollment‐based health insurance programs. After summarizing these public‐sector initiatives, additional information is presented on uninsuredness in America; risk factors for uninsuredness among children; and national public and private initiatives in child health insurance using eligibility criteria other than or including school enrollment that were examined by the GAO in 1994/95.
Recommendations from Overweight Youth Regarding School‐Based Weight Control Programs
Authors: Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne , Story Mary
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:This study aimed to obtain recommendations from overweight youth on the development of school‐based weight control programs; to determine their level of interest in participation; and to learn about the outcomes they desired from such a program. Because obesity is prevalent among youth of certain minority groups and low socioeconomic backgrounds, and since few programs address the needs of these youth, the study population was selected from inner city public schools with high percentages of youth from minority groups and low socioeconomic backgrounds. Sixty‐one overweight adolescents participated in semi‐structured, in‐depth individual interviews, which were audiotaped, transcribed, coded, and analyzed. Findings indicated that many overweight adolescents were interested in participating in school‐based weight control programs, provided they are conducted in a supportive manner; offer enjoyable activities; are informative; are sensitive to the needs of overweight youth; and do not conflict with other activities. Adolescents stressed the importance of a program leader who understands the difficulties that overweight youth face, and many expressed their preference for a leader who is currently overweight or had been overweight in the past.
Comparison of Selected Health Risk Behaviors Between Adolescents in Public and Private High Schools in South Carolina
Authors: Valois Robert F. , Thatcher W. Gregory , Drane J. Wanzer , Reininger Belinda M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study examined differences in selected health risk behaviors among 5,517 students attending public high schools (PUBHS) and 1,089 students attending private high schools (PVTHS) in South Carolina. The 1995 CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey was used to collect self‐report information on adolescent risk behaviors. Chisquare analyses were performed for comparing public and private students on selected risk behaviors. Both PUBHS and PVTHS students reported substantial involvement in most of the risk‐taking behaviors examined. PUBHS students, in general, were more likely to report higher prevalence rates than PVTHS students for most of the selected health risk behaviors. However, PVTHS students reported even higher prevalence rates than PUBHS students for alcohol use, driving after drinking, and binge drinking: smoking cigarettes (past 30 days); chewing tobacco (males only); marijuana use during the past 30 days (females only); and use of alcohol or other drugs before last act of sexual intercourse. Results suggest attendance at a private high school is not a panacea for protection against adolescent risk behaviors, and that all high school students could benefit from a coordinated school health program.
An Interdisciplinary Health Team Training Program for School Staff in Minnesota
Authors: Lia‐Hoagberg Betty , Nelson Paula , Chase Richard A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper describes an interdisciplinary health team training program for school‐based clinic staff in Minnesota. The project sought to improve team functioning, level of practice, and health care services at the school sites. Participants were interdisciplinary staff members from clinics in senior high, middle, and elementary schools. The program consisted of further development in team training knowledge and skills and educational sessions on issues identified by participants. Evaluations indicated participants reported greater knowledge and improved team functioning experiences from the team training. Gains also were shown in knowledge and skills in specific school topic areas such as violence, resiliency, working with resistant families, and self‐care. The program could serve as a model for other interdisciplinary school health team training.
Body Image Perception in Female Mexican‐American Adolescents
Authors: Guinn Bobby , Semper Tom , Jorgensen Layne , Skaggs Steve
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study examined the relationship of body image perception to self‐esteem, physical activity involvement, and body composition among female Mexican‐American adolescents. Subjects (N = 254) ranged in age from 13 to 15 years, mean age 14.4, and were drawn from a predominantly Mexican‐American population located in the lower Rio Grande Valley region of Texas. Data were gathered through a self‐report survey instrument consisting of body image, self‐esteem, and activity involvement scales and anthropometric measures to assess body composition. Results indicated significant positive relationships between body image perception and self‐esteem and activity involvement and a significant negative association between body image and body fat composition. Self‐esteem, followed by body fat composition, exerted the strongest explanatory power of subjects, body image scores. Findings suggest that less body image distortion exists in Mexican‐American adolescent females and interventions designed to promote healthy body image emphasize esteem‐building and physical activity.
Psychosocial and Pharmacologic Explanations of Nicotine's “Gateway Drug” Function
Authors: Lindsay Gordon B. , Rainey Jacquie
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Research has shown that adolescent users of tobacco are much more likely to progress to use of illicit drugs than are nonusers of tobacco. This article suggests potential psychosocial reasons for the progression based on principles of learning theory, Theory of Reasoned Action, Health Belief Model, and Cognitive Dissonance. In addition, a neuropharmacologic causal mechanism is discussed. The existence of tobacco's gateway function has important implications in the nation's efforts to reduce illicit drug use and adolescent smoking.
Video and Computer Games: Effect on Children and Implications for Health Education
Authors: Dorman Steve M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Video and computer‐based games have assumed a prominent role in the culture of American children and adolescents. Given the pervasiveness of their influence, it is likely that these games may affect the health and well‐being of children. This paper examines the health effects of these games on children, suggests criteria upon which parents and teachers may evaluate the games, and notes some implications for health educators.
Evaluation of a Third Grade Sexual Abuse Curriculum
Authors: Telljohann Susan K. , Everett Sherry A. , Price James H.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper presents results from a third grade sexual abuse prevention program. A 24‐item questionnaire was administered as a pretest and post‐test to an experimental group (n = 236) and a control group (n = 195) of third grade students. Those receiving the sexual abuse prevention program significantly increased their sexual abuse knowledge scores from pretest to post‐test. In addition, differences in knowledge were significantly higher in the experimental compared to the control group. Students who received the sexual abuse curriculum significantly improved from pretest to post‐test on their behavioral intention scores. Results from this evaluation indicated a modest improvement can be obtained through use of this two‐hour sexual abuse prevention curriculum.
Immunization Services for Adolescents Within Comprehensive School Health Programs
Authors: Vernon Mary E. , Bryan Gloria , Hunt Pete , Allensworth Diane , Bradley Beverly
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Every school day, more than 95% of the nation's five‐ to 17‐year‐olds attend one of almost 110,000 elementary and secondary schools where they receive instruction in how to avoid major health‐threatening behaviors. School is also the place where children and adolescents can be given preventive health care services, including administration of vaccines and monitoring of immunization levels. This article addresses how expanding school health services could improve immunization levels of school‐aged youth.
Immunizations from Ground Zero: Lessons Learned in Urban Middle Schools
Authors: Boyer‐Chuanroong Lynda , Woodruff Bradley A. , Unti Lisa M. , Sumida Yoko U.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funded a three‐year demonstration project in San Francisco to assess the feasibility of a large‐scale school‐based vaccination effort. The project overcame a number of barriers, including lack of pre‐existing health services, diversity of home languages, and an every‐50‐minute‐bell schedule. The project targeted seventh graders and all special education students for hepatitis B vaccine (HBVac). Of 4,928 students targeted, 3,509 (71%) consented to vaccination and received the first dose. Of these 3,509 students, 3,256 (93%) completed the three‐dose series at school. Key lessons learned include emphasizing a collaborative process in the planning stage, offering an educational component for students, providing an incentive to get timely parental consent, planning distribution and collection of parent materials, and planning vaccination clinics to minimize interrupting the school day. The project clearly demonstrated that, with sufficient attention to political and logistical dimensions, school‐based vaccination programs are possible in large urban schools.
Asian‐American Adolescent Immigrants: The New York City Schools Experience
Authors: Au Loretta , Tso Alan , Chin Katherine
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article describes development and implementation of a school‐based vaccination program that targeted Asian‐American adolescents. The program was implemented by the Chinatown Health Clinic in New York City in two high schools and a junior high school in Lower Manhattan. The article examines strategies effective in vaccinating this varied group of adolescents. Rates of completion for the three‐dose hepatitis B vaccine are compared between schools. Optional serology testing for hepatitis B infection was conducted as part of the school program and rates of infection in this population are presented. The article discusses the importance and effectiveness of school‐based programs in providing essential health services to this group of adolescents.
Health Education Lessons Learned: The H.A.P.I. Kids Program
Authors: Sworts Valentine D. , Riccitelli Carey N.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Challenges exist for effective health communication and health education within diverse populations of the United States. This article addresses the development process for educational materials and lessons learned from the Healthy Asian and Pacific Islander (H.A.P.I.) Kids Program, a vaccination demonstration project funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to promote catch‐up hepatitis B vaccination for older American Asian and Pacific Islander children. Simplicity and a common message were incorporated in multiple strategies to disseminate information to a diverse population. Community representatives from the Cambodian, Hmong, Filipino, Lao, and Vietnamese communities were instrumental in the material development process, which included needs assessment, design, and translation. By making the target community part of the development process, important health messages can be disseminated effectively, carrying great impact to an otherwise hard‐to‐reach community.
Managed Care Organizations and Public Health: Exploring Collaboration on Adolescent Immunizations
Authors: Molliconi Stephanie A. , Zink Therese
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Managed care organizations (MCOs) joined local and state public health agencies in a pilot effort to improve hepatitis B immunization rates of adolescents in an urban and a suburban/rural school district. The pilot also explored issues inherent in public and private collaboration on population health improvement.

Local public health agencies provided links to schools in their communities, took the lead in implementing school‐based immunization programs, and provided health education materials. MCOs contributed financial support necessary for the project. The final cost per fully vaccinated student, not taking into account the work group's planning and coordination time, was little more than the catalog price of the vaccine alone.

Managed care organizations face challenges that complicate their participation and funding of school‐based vaccinations: 1) Limited data on health plans of participating students complicate allocation of costs to each MCO; 2) Double‐paying occurs for MCOs paying clinics a monthly, per‐member rate that already includes adolescent immunizations; 3) When schools provide adolescent immunizations, MCOs lose the “hook” that draws adolescents to clinics for comprehensive health services.

When self‐consenting is permitted, schools can achieve a high consent and completion rates for multi‐dose adolescent immunizations such as hepatitis B. At the same time, MCOs have the responsibility to provide members with comprehensive care and should continue to examine both internal modifications and external partnerships as opportunities to improve their services to adolescents.
A Process Evaluation of Condom Availability in the Seattle, Washington Public Schools
Authors: Brown Nancy L. , Pennylegion Michelle T. , Hillard Pamela
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In 1993, Seattle began making condoms available in all of its 15 high schools. As part of an evaluation of this program, 16 focus groups with students from 13 high schools were conducted to explore students' perceptions of the school environment, program effectiveness, and suggestions for program improvement. The study also included data from a student survey conducted in 10 high schools. The focus group results revealed that students support school condom availability but have concerns about privacy when obtaining condoms. Students prefer obtaining condoms from baskets in private areas of school‐based clinics to obtaining them from vending machines. Students do not believe that having condoms available has affected sexual activity or condom use among students. Recommendations for improving school condom availability include access to free condoms in private locations.U Sch Health. 1997;67(8):336–340)
The Relationship Between Peer, Social, and School Factors, and Delinquency Among Youth
Authors: Paetsch Joanne J. , Bertrand Lorne D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article examines the relationships between self‐reported delinquency and peer, social, and school factors among junior and senior high school students in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, using both cross‐tabulation and multiple‐regression analyses. A greater number of ninth grade students were delinquent compared to students in the other grades studied. Predictably, peers' level of delinquency correlated strongly and positively with students' level of delinquency. Strong, positive correlations with delinquency also were found for students reporting high levels of involvement in sports, and high levels of involvement in commercial/entertainment activities. Multivariate analyses indicated the strongest predictor of delinquent behavior within the group of peer and social variables was peer delinquency. Within the group of school variables, the strongest predictors of delinquent behavior were how often classes were skipped and the number of times students were suspended from school. However, students' grades in school did not significantly increase the accuracy of the regression eqution.