bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Focus Group Interviews in Designing a Smoking Prevention Program
Authors: Heimann‐Ratain Giselle , Hanson Molly , Peregoy Stephen M.
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this study was to gather data that would be applied to the design of an adolescent smoking prevention program. Focus group interviews, a form of qualitative research used in social marketing, were used to gather information from the adolescent participants to ensure that the program would reflect the needs and interests of the target population. The participants consisted of sixth graders from urban and rural areas, and black and white populations of low socioeconomic status. A total of eight focus groups was conducted with eight participants in each focus group. Activities such as auctions, roleplays, and guided discussions were carried out to learn about participant likes, dislikes, values, ideas, and abilities to turn down cigarettes. Following substantiation by a quantitative evaluation, this information was incorporated into the program and materials to ensure the maximum effectiveness of the intervention.
Knowledge of Toxic Shock Syndrome Among Adolescent Females: A Need for Education
Authors: Witzig Diane K. , Ostwald Sharon K.
Published: October 2009

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) has been identified as a potentially fatal but preventable illness that causes disease, disability, and premature death, especially among adolescent females using high absorbency tampons. In 1983 the authors surveyed 129 high school girls in three midwestern senior high schools to determine the relationship between choice of a menstrual product and knowledge about toxic shock syndrome. The study found that the knowledge level of adolescent females about TSS was fragmented and inaccurate. No significant relationship was found between choice of a menstrual product and knowledge about TSS; very little variation existed between the scores for napkin users, regular tampon users, and high absorbency tampon users. Results of the study are discussed in terms of the implications for the health of adolescent females. Recommendations are offered for utilizing health professionals, parents, and the news media in the development of toxic shock education programs.
Helping School‐Age Children Cope With Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Parker Karen
Published: October 2009

Tourette Syndrome, a neurological “tic” disorder characterized by involuntary muscular movements and vocal sounds, can be psychologically devastating and unbearable for the school‐age child. Through the help and support of educational and medical professionals, children and their families can learn to accept and cope with the uncontrollable, bizarre behavior of the Tourette Syndrome.
A Study of Current School Nurse Practice Activities
Authors: White Donna H.
Published: October 2009

In this paper a survey of activities of school nurses will be described. A brief summary of the history of school nursing is included as an introduction to the analysis of the current activities of school nurses. Five current school nurse activity clusters are identified from findings of a study of activities: physical, supportive, educative, administrative, and clerical. The development and implementation of administrative skills are cited as major challenges for school nurses in the 1980s.
Medical and Educational Literature on Physician/Teacher Collaboration
Authors: Marshall Richard M. , Wuori Donald F.
Published: October 2009

Recent changes in the education of exceptional children are placing new demands on physicians and teachers to work together. This article reviews the published educational and medical literature on physician/teacher collaboration. Articles from both fields contend that collaboration is necessary, desirable, and possible. As expected, all articles favor increased collaboration, however, specific guidelines to improve collaboration are surprisingly scarce. Suggestions to improve collaboration are provided.
Tourette Syndrome in the Classroom: Special Problems, Special Needs
Authors: Stefl Mary E. , Rubin Milton
Published: October 2009

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is an uncommon developmental disability characterized by repetitive and involuntary verbal and motor tics. A survey of all known affiliates of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Ohio was conducted to document the special problems and needs of the TS student. A total of 431 questionnaires was returned, and the types and frequency of interpersonal and academic school problems were found to be pervasive. Problems did not differ by grade level, but students medicating their TS symptoms experienced more problems. In most cases, current students described similar problems to adults, suggesting that recent attempts to provide optimal educational opportunities to all handicapped children have not been successful where TS is involved. The presence of a behavioral or learning disability diagnosis indicated that substantial percentages of respondents were in need of specialized educational services, but not all those in need were receiving them. Parents were generally satisfied with their child's education, but less satisfied when specialized education was involved. Suggestions are offered for more effectively dealing with the TS child in the classroom.
The Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Children Living in an Unincorporated Area in Rural Northern Florida
Authors: Adams Ruth T. , Perkin Judy E.
Published: October 2009

A survey was conducted to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitism in 65 native‐born preschool and school‐age children living in an unincorporated area of northern Florida. Fifty‐seven percent of the children were found to be infected with intestinal parasites. Sixty‐eight percent of males surveyed and 47% of females had either single or multiple infections. Prevalence was greatest in the five‐10‐year‐old age group. For the total child population surveyed, parasitic infections in order of most to least prevalent were ascariasis (32%); giardiasis (29%); trichuriasis (14%); and hookworm (2%).
The Assessment of Bulimia in High School Students
Authors: Maceyko Sandra J. , Nagelberg Daniel B.
Published: October 2009

This study attempted to: estimate the prevalence of bulimia among a sample of high school students; identify demographic variables associated with the disorder; and identify possible personality variables associated with bulimia. Based on the DSM‐III criteria for bulimia, each of 257 students who participated in the study was assigned to one of three groups; 12 students (4.7%) were identified as bulimic, 88 (34.2%) as binge eaters, and 157 (61.1%) as normal eaters. Gender was the only demographic variable significantly associated with group, and all 12 of the bulimic students were female (7.1% of the female students). Personality differences were assessed with the California Psychological Inventory (CPI). On two of the scales, female students identified as bulimic and binge eaters scored significantly lower than students identified as normal eaters, indicating poorer adjustment. In males, none of the scales discriminated between the binge eater and normal eater groups. Results are discussed in the context of mental health needs among adolescents and high school students.
Health Concerns and Teacher Training of Selected Elementary Teachers in Michigan
Authors: Davis Christine , Jelsma Nancy M. , Van Valey Thomas L.
Published: October 2009

With reductions in the number of school‐based health personnel, increased responsibility for the identification of health problems falls to the classroom teacher. This paper describes a survey of the level of health‐related training among a sample of elementary teachers in a Michigan intermediate school district, with the teachers' perceptions of their ability to recognize and deal with selected student health problems. Though some differences existed between classroom and other teachers, and between veteran and newly‐trained teachers, the overall results were clear — elementary teachers are not well‐prepared for their expanded role. This fact was especially true for more difficult to recognize and potentially more serious health problems such as injury to the head and substance abuse, where teachers expressed considerable discomfort with their ability and lack of preparation. Several recommendations are offered relating to the need for health training.
Evaluation of American Cancer Society Elementary School Public Education Programs
Authors: Pigg R. Morgan , Bailey William J. , Seffrin John R. , Torabi Mohammad R. , Lave Janice S.
Published: October 2009

A comprehensive evaluation of two American Cancer Society (ACS) curriculum programs, An Early Start to Good Health (grades K‐3) and Health Network (grades four‐six), was conducted to assess the impact of the materials on student health knowledge, attitude, and behavior and to determine procedures and practices employed by teachers in utilizing the materials. The materials were tested with 26 classroom teachers and 660 children in grades K‐6, and the material utilization practices of an additional 356 teachers in 27 schools were examined. Findings from the evaluation suggest that the two programs are effective in promoting child health education, but questions were raised concerning the ACS requirements for teacher training and the Usage Report Card system of documentation.
Regulatory Considerations When Children are Involved as Subjects in Research
Authors: Porter Joan P.
Published: October 2009

Investigators planning research projects face a myriad of considerations including careful review of the literature, study design, selection of subject population, analysis of data, financial and administrative support, and publishing the data. One area for careful thought by those contemplating research in educational settings is the regulatory requirements that may apply when human subjects–children or students in particular–are involved in the research. This article describes the applicability and some basic provisions of US Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regulations for the protection of human subjects, requirements for informed consent, and some additional protections for children involved in research. Suggestions for preparing a grant application for DHHS support and sources of additional information also are included.
Methodologic Issues in Self‐Report of Health Behavior
Authors: Baranowski Tom
Published: October 2009

Self‐reports of behavior are the most commonly used method for collecting outcome data in health education programs, but they are subject to a variety of sources of measurement error. Problems of measurement in some recently reported education program evaluations are identified, and a model is proposed to identify systematically the major influences for accuracy of self‐reported measures of behavior. Several methodologic studies on the skill aspect of self‐report form completion are briefly described, and eight steps to promote more accurate self‐report of health behaviors are proposed.
Screening for Risk Factors as a Component of a Chronic Disease Prevention Program for Youth
Authors: Walter Heather J. , Connelly Patricia A.
Published: October 2009

Screening for risk factors within the framework of a chronic disease prevention program for youth can enhance both the educational and evaluative impact of the program. Screening results can provide the focus for curriculum development and the impetus for health‐related behavior change. Program evaluation is facilitated by the use of screening results as objective outcome data regarding health status. The implementation of medical screening as a component of a chronic disease prevention program is described, and issues related to educational and evaluative impact are discussed.
Stepping Forward into Health Education Research
Authors: Levy Susan R.
Published: October 2009

Directed toward individuals beginning research activities, this article presents topical areas of interest for those who are planning projects and applying for funding. Topics include Planning the Project, Basic Funding Terminology, Reasons Proposals are Disapproved, and How to Initiate a Contact.
An Evaluation of Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment Techniques on the Impact of the SERR Curriculum
Authors: Christenson Pamela D.
Published: October 2009

This study measured the effectiveness of a smoking risk reduction program for sixth grade students using a pretest/posttest control group design with the addition of a nonequivalent control group. Knowledge of the health consequences of smoking, decision‐making, resistance‐to‐persuasion skills, and tobacco use were analyzed quantitatively; program implementation, participant views of the program, and program effects were analyzed qualitatively; and the quantitative data were analyzed in terms of its consistency with the qualitative data. Analysis of quantitative results revealed significant differences between groups on the smoking knowledge test, decision‐making skills, and resistance‐to‐persuasion skills. Qualitative results not only substantiated quantitative results, but also revealed overall participant satisfaction with the program. They also indicated the need for a close working relationship between teachers, state and local health educators, reorganization of the curriculum, and relinquishing of curriculum to school districts for self‐scheduling and organization. Utilization of both methods of analysis yielded a closer estimate of total program impact than if only method of analysis had been used.
Use of Statistics in the Journal of School Health 1979–1983: A Content Analysis
Authors: Rudolph Alice , McDermott Robert J. , Gold Robert S.
Published: October 2009

A content analysis of the statistical methods employed in the research/evaluation articles published in Volumes 49–53 of the Journal of School Health (JOSH) was performed. Questions addressed included: To what extent does JOSH publish articles having a research/evaluation theme? Does knowledge of a few basic statistical techniques provide access to the statistical components of a high percentage of the research/evaluation reports published in JOSH? Which additional, but more complex techniques are used most often by authors? Results indicated that, to have access to the statistical content of about three‐fourths of the research/evaluation reports published in JOSH, a reader would have to have learned descriptive statistics, analysis of contingency tables, analysis of variance, t‐tests, and multiple comparison tests. Knowledge of these and other statistical procedures might assist school health practitioners read research/evaluation reports, and adapt the findings to their respective work settings. Moreover, content analyses can be tools for assessing the state‐of‐the‐art of a profession, as well as helping to plan for practitioners' continuing education needs.
Diagnosing Boredom, Confusion, and Adaptation in School Children
Authors: Frick Sandra B.
Published: October 2009

An instrument was developed to determine if middle‐school children could be diagnosed as being in a bored, confused, or adaptive state of mind. Boredom and confusion were viewed as maladaptive states. Reliability was demonstrated for the boredom, confusion, and adaptation subscales. Indications of validity were obtained for the three subscales. Boredom, confusion, and adaptation subscale scores were correlated with standardized achievement test scores and with teacher grades in academic subject areas for 136 sixth and seventh grade students. Confusion scores correlated significantly and negatively with eight of nine standardized achievement test scores, and with two of four teacher grades in academic subject areas. All correlations obtained were in the expected directions. Implications for interventions, especially in the diagnosis of confusion, are discussed.
A Cost‐Benefit Analysis of Preparticipation Sports Examinations of Adolescent Athletes
Authors: Risser William L. , Hoffman Harold M. , Bellah G. Gordon , Green Lawrence W.
Published: October 2009

A cost‐benefit analysis of preparticipation sports exams of 763 adolescents was based on data from parallel programs conducted on affluent white and indigent black populations. After initial exams, 16 athletes (2.1%) were referred for further evaluation before participation was allowed; 15 of 16 reported their problems on the history form. Two were disqualified and one was treated. The cost of identifying the three athletes with significant problems was $4,537 per athlete. An additional 163 athletes (21.6%) had significant medical problems unrelated to safe sports participation and 89% of students sought routine health care only to obtain permission to play sports. Preparticipation sports exams have an unfavorable cost‐benefit ratio even if costs are carefully controlled. The ratio might be improved if significant health problems not relevant to safe sports participation are sought or if exams are limited to athletes with positive responses on a preliminary history form.
Calcium Intake: A Lifelong Proposition
Authors: Amschler Denise H.
Published: October 2009

The need for significant amounts of calcium in the diets of growing children has been well‐documented. However, recent evidence suggests that calcium continues to play a vital role in the body throughout life and that current RDAs for calcium need to be increased. This article reviews the current problem of low calcium intake in the United States among all age groups, the role of calcium in the formation and maintenance of bone mass, and major factors influencing calcium absorption. The specific problem of calcium deficiency and osteoporosis is discussed and current recommendations for RDAs are provided. The importance of the individual building as much bone mass as possible prior to the age of 30 is discussed.
Community Organization in a School Health Education Program to Reduce Sodium Consumption
Authors: McKay Ruth B. , Levine David M. , Bone Lee R.
Published: October 2009

This paper describes the important role of community organization in providing the enabling and reinforcing factors necessary for students to adopt dietary behavior changes recommended in a school health education program for cardiovascular health. The “Hold the Salt!” program was designed to teach sixth grade students and their families about the link between high sodium diets early in life and increased risk for cardiovascular disease, and to significantly reduce pupils' intake of high‐sodium snacks. The program consists of four educational components: a classroom cafeteria curriculum unit built around a board game; parent outreach; health provider reinforcement; and community support. The program was tested in an experimental group (n = 53) of urban, black, sixth grade students, whose knowledge and behavior changes were compared to a control group (n = 23) with similar demographic statistics. Data collected before and after the school program showed a 20% increase in knowledge about sodium and health (p < .01) and a 33% decrease in reported high‐sodium snack consumption (p < .05) in the experimental group compared to no significant knowledge or reported behavior changes in the control group. The program was piloted for two years in Baltimore City elementary schools, then adopted by the Maryland State Dept. of Education for dissemination as part of the Home Economics curriculum in all of the state's middle schools.
Parent and Teacher Perception of Depression in Children
Authors: Korup Ursula Levy
Published: October 2009

A descriptive study correlated depression in children with parental perceptions and with teacher report card ratings of school achievement and adjustment. Two hundred and twenty children, age six‐to‐12 years, and parents of approximately half the sample, were interviewed using the Children's Depression Rating Scale (CDRS). Symptoms of depression were discovered in 10% of the children. Sixty‐eight percent of parents were unaware of their child's depression. Parents were most aware of sleeping problems, physical complaints, and academic achievement and least aware of social withdrawal, tiredness, depressed feelings, and suicidal ideations. Most depressed students achieved at grade level in reading and math, but they received lower grades for effort than nondepressed students. Depression was associated significantly with inability to work and play, both alone and in a group.
Development of a Short Obesity Knowledge Scale Using Four Different Response Formats
Authors: Price James H. , O'Connell Janelle K. , Kukulka Gary
Published: October 2009

This study examined the validity and reliability of a short obesity knowledge scale. A 12‐item test was developed around the four aspects of obesity: etiology of obesity; diseases related to obesity; weight loss techniques; and general information on obesity. Four forms were developed: true/false, true/false/uncertain, multiple choice, and Likert response. Comparisons of the four test formats with 187 subjects revealed a variety of internal reliabilities, stability reliabilities, item discriminations, and readability scores.
Development and Application of the Student Test Used in the School Health Education Evaluation
Authors: Olsen Larry K. , Hambleton Ronald , Simon Robert , Connell David B. , Turner Ralph R. , Orenstein Diane
Published: October 2009

To accurately assess the health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of students in grades four‐seven, the staff of the School Health Education Evaluation (SHEE) project devoted extensive effort to identify a test appropriate for such assessment. An extensive literature review failed to produce an instrument sufficiently comprehensive or psychometrically sound that could be employed. In this paper, the philosophic orientation and the detailed processes followed in developing a noncurriculum specific, psychometrically sound evaluation instrument for use in the study is described. Included are the bases for the test framework, test objective development, test item review, the various measures constructed using the test blueprint, student performance on the test battery, the psychometric qualities of the test, and suggestions for appropriate use of the final test in other school health education settings.
Implication of Results: Factors for Success
Authors: Fors Stuart W. , Doster Mildred E.
Published: October 2009

The four‐year evaluation study summarized in this issue brings new evidence and directions for more successful health education programs. Two major factors for success stand out. The implementation of the program requires administrative support to assure adequate teacher preparation, and, fidelity to the curriculum must be maintained. The authors will describe these factors.
Comprehensive School Health Education: A Practical Definition
Authors: Davis Roy L. , Gonser Howard L. , Kirkpatrick Margaret A. , Lavery Sally Wolfe , Owen Sandra L.
Published: October 2009

This article identifies 10 essential elements of comprehensiveness related to school health education that have been agreed upon by key personnel long involved in one or more of the four school health curriculum programs studied in the School Health Education Evaluation (SHEE) study. Each element is briefly described and followed with one or two examples of practical applications selected from the four curricula. The authors further concur with the concept that a Consumer Reports type of reporting of school health curriculum models might be useful in further SHEE data analysis and that the “elements of comprehensiveness” concept might be a valuable adjunct to such reporting.
The Relationship Between the Sexual Attitudes of Parents and their College Daughters' or Sons' Sexual Attitudes and Sexual Behavior
Authors: Yarber William L. , Greer Joanne M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study determined if three selected sexual attitudes of parents were related to similar sexual attitudes of their college daughters or sons and to five sexual behaviors. Only never married, college freshmen (N = 83) with both parents participating were utilized. A self‐report questionnaire was administered to students at a large midwestern university and distributed to and returned from parents by mail. The Pearson product‐moment correlation and the stepwise and multiple regressions were used to test four hypotheses. Mothers' sexual attitudes had a stronger relationship than fathers' attitudes with offspring sexual attitudes and behaviors, particularly for daughters. Generally, mothers with the most positive attitudes toward sexual‐self had daughters who were more responsive relative to personal sexual expression (masturbation frequency and orgasmic experience), but who were not any more involved heterosexually (frequency of coitus and number of coital partners). Fathers' sexual attitudes had little relationship to offspring sexual attitudes and behavior. None of the male students' sexual behaviors were related strongly to parent sexual attitudes. Implications for school and parent sexuality education programs are briefly discussed.
A Three Component Cancer Attitude Scale
Authors: Torabi Mohammad R. , Seffrin John R.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A scale was developed to measure college students' attitudes toward cancer and cancer prevention. The three components of attitude are Feeling (affective). Belief (cognitive), and Intention to Act (conative). Following pilot testing and preliminary scale construction, the final scale was administered to a representative sample of 1,040 college students at five major U.S. universities. The data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate statistical techniques to evaluate scale performance and validity. Findings indicated that both internal and external criteria were met at statistically significant levels. Results of item analysis and discriminant function analysis demonstrated the discriminating power of the scale. Reliability coefficients of the scale and the three subscales (components) were established. Coefficients of reliability for the total scale was .94 (Cronbach's alpha). The three subscales ranged from .78 to .93. The scale was found to be valid and reliable for use in the study of college students' attitudes toward cancer and cancer prevention.
Dipping and Chewing Behavior Among University Students: Prevalence and Patterns of Use
Authors: McDermott Robert J. , Marty Phillip J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Identifying the prevalence and patterns of smokeless tobacco use among students at a midwestern university was the purpose of this study. Since smokeless tobacco sales have increased 52% since 1978, and since a youth market has developed, identifying why and when young people use these products can assist health educators in developing strategies to discourage initiation and promote cessation. A 25–item questionnaire completed by 676 undergraduate students indicated that 14% of males and 0.5% of females were regular snuff dippers or tobacco chewers. More than one‐third of the users began use at or before age 16. The influence of a “friend” was the major reason cited for initiating use, while “fun/relaxation” was cited as the principal reason for continuing. Fewer than one‐third of users successfully identified the health risks associated with snuff and chewing tobacco.
Depression in Children
Authors: Epstein Michael H. , Cullinan Douglas
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Depression among children has received considerable attention from mental health professionals. A knowledge of the major approaches to conceptualizing, diagnosing, and treating childhood depression can assist school health practitioners in treatment. The purpose of this paper is to review research on the prevalence, classification, etiology, assessment, and treatment of childhood depression.
Cost Documentation of School Nursing Follow‐up Services
Authors: Oda Dorothy S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The cost of nursing services was documented as part of a grant to study the effect of school nursing follow‐up on the outcome of dental screening. Eleven nurses participated in the study with experimental (n = 287) groups of fifth and sixth grade students from a large West Coast school district who were screened for caries. Stratifiers for the randomized group assignment were school, cavity severity, gender, ethnicity, and insurance coverage. A positive difference occurred for the 11 nurses (p = 0.0046). The cost of telephone follow‐up averaged $8.92 for 26.69 minutes and compared favorably with a California state allowance of $11 for a half‐hour of similar service. The study offers a beginning analytical formulation for examining field services in school and community health nursing using a naturalistic experimental design.
School Phobia: The Importance of Prompt Intervention
Authors: McAnanly Eileen
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School nurses, teachers, administrators, and child study team members annually are confronted with the recurring problem of how to help school phobic children cope with and resolve the fears and anxieties that beset them. In their efforts to aid the phobic child, school personnel must communicate with concerned parents who oftentimes view the school as the primary source of the problems evidenced by their child. Because of the dearth of literature on school phobia, school personnel frequently are uncertain of the proper approach in dealing with the phobic child and the family. The importance of prompt treatment, and the need for good communication among those concerned with the phobic child, are addressed in this article. The manifestation of this disorder is described and theories and intervention methods are reviewed.
Two Noninvasive Methods to Measure Female Maturation
Authors: Kozinetz Claudia A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Data from a sample (n = 278) of female subjects, ages seven‐13, from a cross‐sectional study were used to compare two methods of measuring maturation. The methods were self‐assessment of secondary sex characteristics and prediction of adult height. Breast and pubic hair assessments were correlated significantly (r = 0.615 and r = 0.696, p < 0.001) with predicted adult height estimates, indicating the practical use of either method. Assessment of maturation in childhood is strongly recommended to further understanding of the timing and sequence of physical, physiological, social, and behavioral characteristics of children during growth and maturation.
Menarche in the Severely Disabled Adolescent: School Nurses' Attitudes, Perceptions, and Perceived Teaching Responsibilities
Authors: Tse Alice M. , Opie Nancy D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Children with physical disabilities increasingly are being mainstreamed into regular educational settings within public schools. Though the nurse has been the most preferred person to teach the child about menarche, little attention has been directed toward nurses' attitudes and perceptions of their functions in this role. This study determined perceptions of school nurses about their roles as teachers of sex education for children with physical disabilities. Responses were examined in relation to subjects' employment setting (handicapped or nonhandicapped/mixed setting) as well as the version of a stimulus story about a female adolescent sent to the school nurse for assistance and instruction on menarche. Results indicate that inservice programs for nurses and school personnel may be developed to facilitate more effective interactions with both handicapped and nonhandicapped children.
Children of Alcoholics: Breaking the Cycle
Authors: Woodside Migs
Published: October 2009

“Please send me some pamphlets. I am twelve‐and‐a‐half years old. Please hurry. I can't stand it anymore. My father's drinking.”
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome in Children
Authors: Given Barbara K. , Stack Brendan C.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dsyfunction is described and a historical perspective of the disorder is presented. A review of research related to symptoms, incidence, correlates, and causes of TMJ dysfunction in children is presented. Factors regarding identification are discussed, and treatment options are outlined. The purpose of this article is to increase the awareness of school health personnel about a condition which traditionally has been considered an adult disorder.
An Alcohol Attitude Scale for Teen‐Agers
Authors: Torabi Mohammad R. , Veenker C. Harold
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A scale was designed to measure the affective, cognitive, and conative components of teen‐agers' attitudes toward the use of alcohol. Data collected from a representative sample of about 700 Indiana high school students were subjected to univariate and multivariate statistical analyses to evaluate scale performance and validity. Findings demonstrated that internal and external criteria were met at highly significant levels. Factor analysis identified four factors that describe the dimensionality of teen‐agers' alcohol attitudes. Findings of discriminant function analysis of the data supported the results of univariate analyses and revealed one significant function that differentiated between drinker and nondrinker groups in terms of attitudes. The scale was a valid instrument for obtaining measures having dependable inferential value and was useful in analyzing teen‐agers' attitudes toward alcohol use.
Reducing Adolescent Smoking: A Comparison of Peer‐led, Teacher‐led, and Expert Interventions
Authors: Clarke John H. , MacPherson Brian , Holmes David R. , Jones Robert
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: To test the effectiveness of a psychosocial strategy of smoking deterence on seventh grade students, the School Health Education Development project implemented peer‐led, teacher‐led, and expert‐led interventions in six Vermont schools. Four additional schools served as control groups. The teacher‐led approach reduced the rate of smoking onset and the intention to smoke in the future among highly vulnerable females but not among males. The peer‐led approach reduced the behavioral intention to smoke for both sexes but did not affect current smoking behavior. The expert‐led approach did not produce favorable effects. Both the peer‐led and teacher‐led interventions had positive, though not significant, effects on student perception of locus of control. In the control schools, females experienced higher levels of smoking onset than males. Generally, the study points toward further development of a teacher‐led approach to smoking deterence based on the theory of adolescent psychosocial development and the principle of continuous reinforcement.
AIDS, the Schools, and Policy Issues
Authors: Price James H.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) first was reported in the United States in May 1981. As many as two million Americans may be infected with the AIDS virus and that number could approach five million within five years. This article reviews the discovery of AIDS and describes the biology of the disease. The problem of AIDS among children is discussed and implications for school policy decisions are cited.
Report of the 1984 ASHA Membership Survey
Authors: Olsen Larry K. , Tucker Ann Washburn , Allensworth Diane D. , Pierre Richard St.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The results of the most recent American School Health Association (ASHA) membership survey, conducted by ASHA to retain its continuing education units provider status granted in 1981 by the American Nurses' Association are reported. Results of the 1984 survey are compared to two previous surveys, conducted in 1980 and 1982. Topics examined include membership demographics, attendance at national meetings, continuing education needs and preferences, maintaining professional competence, professional issues of importance to readers, and options for improving the usefulness of the Journal of School Health. Several membership trends are discussed and implications for future planning are noted.
Social Disaffection, Friendship Patterns and Adolescent Cigarette Use: The Muscatine Study
Authors: Krohn Marvin D. , Naughton Michele J. , Skinner William F. , Becker Samuel L. , Lauer Ronald M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study was undertaken to determine if adolescent social disaffection with school and family not only would be a significant predictor of cigarette use but would explain a significant amount of the association with friends who smoke. Eleven hundred and eighty ninth‐12th grade students in Muscatine, Iowa, were surveyed in Spring 1984. Multiple regression analyses indicated several social disaffection variables were significant predictors of association with friends who smoke, explaining 20% of the variance. The combination of association with friends who smoke and social disaffection variables explained 48% of the variance in adolescent cigarette smoking. Variables related to adolescents' participation in school and related activities suggest prevention programs should recognize the impact of social disaffection on adolescents cigarette use.
Enhancing the Health Competence of School‐age Children Through Behavioral Self‐Management Skills
Authors: Petosa Rick
Published: October 2009

School health education programs are based on the assumption that health status is influenced by personal health practices. Health instruction cannot have a favorable impact on all factors influencing personal health behavior, so an effort must be made to determine which skills enhance health behavior for most individuals. Self‐management skills can help individuals make behavioral changes consistent with their health‐related decisions. This article describes several self‐management skills and offers suggestions for teaching behavioral self‐management.
School Health Practices for Children with Complex Medical Needs
Authors: Wood Susan P. , Walker Deborah Klein , Gardner Jane
Published: October 2009

Concern is growing about the adequacy and safety of health services provided for medically complex children in public schools. A national survey of state health and education agencies was conducted to learn if guidelines existed governing the practice of eight selected nursing procedures in schools. Thirteen states (26%) had no written guidelines, 13 states (26%) had guidelines only for medication administration, and only six states (12%) had guidelines for the eight selected nursing procedures.
Cognitive Development and the Dynamics of Decision‐making among Adolescents
Authors: Hammes Michael J. , Duryea Elias J.
Published: October 2009

Cognitive development was examined in relation to the amount of time students would deliberate before making a decision, the effect of perceived emotional stress on decision making, and identification of all possible decisions that would have to be made. Subjects were 94 eighth‐11th grade students in New Mexico and Montana. Results indicated abstract thinkers had a better decision‐making process than concrete thinkers and made more health promoting decisions. Health educators are challenged to create educational strategies that enhance abstract development and teach classic steps of decision‐making, thus improving the decision‐making ability of youth.
School‐based Drug Education in North America: What is Wrong? What can be Done?
Authors: Goodstadt Michael S.
Published: October 2009

This article reviews experimental literature concerning the impact of drug (including alcohol and tobacco) education. Major weaknesses are identified with respect to planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of programs. Of special significance are inadequate identification of program objectives and target groups, failure to appreciate the dynamics of effective influence, lack of attention to program dissemination and utilization, and lack of concern with establishing the impact of programs through careful evaluation.
Smokeless Tobacco Use Among Rural High School Students in Arkansas
Authors: Williams Tom , Guyton Rick , Marty Phillip J. , McDermott Robert J. , Young Michael E.
Published: October 2009

This study determined the prevalence of smokeless tobacco use among high school students in selected rural communities in Arkansas, and identified factors associated with initiation and maintenance of use. A questionnaire was distributed to 1,237 students in 13 rural high schools in different educational service regions of Arkansas during spring 1985. Results indicated 34.5% of males and 2.5% of females reported regular use of smokeless tobacco. The factor contributing most to initiation of this practice was the influence of a parent who used smokeless tobacco products. Comparisons to other recent studies and implications for health educators are discussed.
Blood Pressure of Low Income, Mexican‐American Children
Authors: Guinn Bobby , Crofts Alfred
Published: October 2009

Blood pressure (BP) readings were obtained for 1,680 low income Mexican‐American (MA) children, ages ten‐14 years, to determine distributions among this ethnic group. Analysis of data indicated mean BP increased with age, with boys exhibiting slightly higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures than girls. Comparion of MA subjects with National Institutes of Health percentile norms revealed significantly lower BP levels (p < .001) among study subjects at all age groups.
The Structure of Children's Beliefs about Health and Illness
Authors: Green Kathy E. , Bird J. Elisabeth
Published: October 2009

This study examined the structure of causal beliefs in children, concentrating on attributions by children about “staying well” vs. “getting sick.” Eighty‐two children in grades one, three, five, and seven‐eight participated in the study. Children were asked pairwise to compare five causes of health and five causes of illness. Self‐controlled or self‐initiated actions were the most highly ranked causes of health. As a cause of illness, self‐initiated behaviors were ranked second to germs and bad weather. Health and illness seemed to be understood as reciprocal aspects of the concept “health” by older but not by younger children. Results are discussed in relation to attributions made at different age levels.
Future Fit: A Cardiovascular Health Education and Fitness Project in an After‐school Setting
Authors: Connor Maureen K. , Smith Lynn G. , Fryer Andrew , Erickson Susan , Fryer Sally , Drake June
Published: October 2009

Future Fit was developed to provide a low cost, heart health education and fitness program that could be incorporated readily into existing after‐school programs with minimal teacher training and nominal expenditures for equipment and supplies. Participants in the 12‐week demonstration project were 55 third and fourth grade students enrolled in after‐school programs at four sites, randomly assigned to experimental and control conditions. Results indicated significant knowledge gains and changes in knowledge, attitude, and behavior at home. These outcomes suggest health and fitness programming in the after‐school setting can be an effective complement to the education provided within the school setting.
Community‐wide Health Promotion and Drug Abuse Prevention
Authors: Perry Cheryl L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper reviews the rationale for a community‐wide approach to drug abuse prevention. Four arguments are outlined. The question of how to conceptualize community‐wide strategies is then addressed. Three background frameworks, psychosocial theory, the appropriate intervention targets, and the timing or readiness of the community, are reviewed. Examples of each from ongoing research are presented. The usefulness of each framework to the design of specific strategies for drug abuse prevention is provided.
Community Organization and School Liaisons: How to Get Programs Started
Authors: Pentz Mary Ann
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper briefly reviews four intervention models, Rothman's community organization, Green's system‐centered education, Rogers' innovation‐decision process, and Watzlawick's planned change, for their applicability to help initiate community‐based programs for drug abuse prevention and health promotion in youth. An expanded model is described, including preprogram assessment of the target population, community, and drug use problem, and continuous evaluation of program process and product. School liaisons are emphasized as a key factor in early adoption and demonstration of a community‐based program for youth. The expanded model, including school liaisons, is applied to a comprehensive community drug abuse prevention project being implemented in the Greater Kansas City area. The model — and the project — suggest methods for organizing communities for long‐term drug prevention, initially at the level of school and school district, and later to the family, mass media, and community organizations in a proximal‐to‐distal sequence of programming.
Balancing Program and Research Integrity in Community Drug Abuse Prevention: Project STAR Approach
Authors: Pentz Mary Ann , Cormack Calvin , Flay Brian , Hansen William B. , Johnson C. Anderson
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper focuses on the process of community‐based drug prevention programming using an ongoing, multiple community project (Project STAR) as an illustration. Particular attention is paid to problems and strategies for balancing program and research integrity over the long‐term. Specific strategies are discussed for obtaining and sustaining support for the program, quality control throughout program delivery, and accommodation of both research and program objectives.
Community‐based Substance Abuse Prevention: A Multicultural Perspective
Authors: Orlandi Mario A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Communities represent complex organizational entities which frequently are comprised of varying racial, ethnic, and sociocultural subgroups. This diversity, which is often underestimated and at times overlooked, presents a formidable challenge to substance abuse prevention efforts. The different lifestyles exhibited by various subgroups within a community represent a range of target behaviors that must be addressed if community health promotion initiatives are to be effective. This paper describes the barriers to achieving the goals of community‐based substance abuse prevention that can arise from failing to recognize socioculturally‐defined subgroups. An intervention planning model, which addresses the barriers from the perspective of a communication‐behavior change (CBC) theoretical framework, is presented.
The Efficacy of Peer Leaders in Drug Abuse Prevention
Authors: Klepp Knut‐Inge , Halper Andrew , Perry Cheryl L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The results from school‐based, peer‐led psychosocial smoking prevention programs suggest that this approach is effective in reducing smoking onset rates. This paper provides a theoretical rationale for using peer leaders as a major strategy in school‐based drug abuse prevention programs and reviews the available literature assessing the impact of peer leadership in such programs. Furthermore, some of the practical issues involved in selecting and training peer leaders and teachers are discussed, and process evaluation data from studies conducted at the University of Minnesota are presented. The authors conclude that peer leadership can be an effective vehicle for drug abuse prevention among adolescents. However, increased research is necessary to clarify the conditions under which the impact of peer leaders is enhanced.