bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explanatory Pluralism and Heuristic Identity Theory
Authors: McCauley Robert N. , Bechtel William
Published: March 2007

Explanatory pluralism holds that the sorts of comprehensive theoretical and ontological economies that microreductionists and New Wave reductionists envision and antireductionists fear offer misleading views of both scientific practice and scientific progress. Both advocates and foes of employing reductionist strategies at the interface of psychology and neuroscience have overplayed the alleged economies that interlevel connections (including identities) justify while overlooking their fundamental role in promoting scientific research. A brief review of research on visual processing provides support for the explanatory pluralist's general model of cross-scientific relations and discloses the valuable heuristic role hypothetical identities play in cross-scientific research. That model also supplies grounds for hesitation about the correlation objection to the psychophysical identity theory and complaints about an explanatory gap in physicalist accounts of consciousness. These takes on psycho-neural connections miss both the sorts of considerations that motivate hypothetical identities in science and their fundamental contribution to progressive research. Thus, their focus on the contributions of research at multiple levels of analysis does not bar explanatory pluralists from considering heuristic identity theory (HIT). Arguably, it encourages it.
Bounded Rationality in Taking Risks and Drawing Inferences
Authors: Oaksford Mike , Chater Nick
Published: March 2007

This commentary provides a discussion of the concept of `bounded rationality' as it applies to the theses advanced by Lopes (1991) and Evans (1991). Lopes's (1991) assessment of the irrationalist consequences of Tversky and Kahneman's (1974) work on heuristics and biases is premature because bounded rationality implies that people could not employ optimal strategies. Considerations of bounded rationality also provide additional criteria by which to judge the theories of deductive reasoning discussed by Evans (1991). Judged by this criterion, theories whose goal is to explain logically competent performance are inadequate (Oaksford & Chater, 1991). Thus Evans's assessment of the state of current theories of reasoning requires revision.
A Teleological Critique of Modern Cognitivism
Authors: Rychlak Joseph F.
Published: March 2007

This paper summarizes a teleological critique of modern cognitivism in terms of four points that address the suitability of such mechanistic accounts to explain human cognition: (1) Final-cause formulations are not required to understand mechanical processing, whereas human reasoning cannot be understood without them. (2) Computer theory is exclusively extraspective, but human reasoning demands an introspective theoretical account. (3) A mechanical process is limited to mediation, whereas human beings employ a predication process in their reasoning. (4) Human beings employ oppositionality, enabling them to reason according to a soft disjunction, whereas machines follow a Boolean logic that limits them to a hard disjunction in which only apposition is at play. Research reputed to be dealing with key criticisms of this paper is examined and found wanting. The author's research in support of predicational modeling is cited.
The Construction of Stereotypes within Social Psychology
Authors: Augoustinos Martha , Walker Iain
Published: March 2007

This paper reviews the varying and contrasting ways in which stereotypes, as representations of groups, and stereotyping as an activity, have been constructed and understood within contemporary social psychology. These distinct theoretical approaches include the dominant social cognitive tradition, which views stereotypes as cognitive schemas that simplify reality, and self-categorization theory, which views stereotypes as psychologically valid representations which reflect the actualities of intergroup relations. We articulate how more social and collective accounts based on social representations theory, ideology and discursive psychology can enrich our understanding of stereotypes and stereotyping. Stereotypes are not the product of individual cognitive activity alone, but are also social and collective products which function ideologically by justifying and legitimizing existing social and power relations within a society. We also discuss recent contributions to the enduring enigma within social psychology regarding the relationship between stereotypes and social reality, and identify the inherent ideological problems which plague positivist attempts to explicate this relationship. Finally, we discuss the need for an integrative social psychological theory of stereotyping which links the cognitive and psychological analyses of stereotyping to more social, structural and discursive analyses.
Human Temporality in a Nowless Universe
Authors: Fraser J. T.
Published: March 2007

The human experience of time is that of an ever-changing present in which the future becomes past. By sharp contrast, the laws that govern the physical world do not allow any meaning to be assigned to a present. Since future and past, and the metaphor of time's flow make sense only with reference to a now, physical processes cannot, and do not, provide for a preferential direction of change. This paper shows how the undirected time of the physical world and the directed temporalities of life and of conscious experience may nevertheless be accommodated within a natural philosophy of time.
Economic Rationales and a Wealth of Time
Authors: Biesecker Adelheid
Published: March 2007

Time in modern economics is treated either as money or as a resource. Time is scarce and as such it is economically rational to save it. The economic approach to time ensures the acceleration of economic processes. This in turn damages the reproductive cycles of social life and the natural environment. This paper argues that a future sustainable economy must be based on a new understanding of time. It must care for and protect socio-environmental needs for more time, for time cycles and for rhythms. The development of such a `new economy of time' requires a broader concept of economic rationality. With this goal in mind, the traditional economic approaches to time are criticized and five aspects of a `new' economy of time discussed. Finally, the question of the constructors of the `new economy of time' is raised.
Imaging the 'Other': The Bosnian Slave in Mediterranean Space during the Lower Middle Ages
Authors: Fejic Nenad
Published: March 2007

The article investigates the processes by which a particular image of slavery was created and diffused in the Mediterranean basin. It draws upon notarial records from the archives of Dubrovnik and Barcelona, whichfurnish rich descriptions of the origins, names, character traits and physical anomalies of 'human merchandise' during the Middle Ages. The constitution of a particular image of slavery cannot be dissociated from politico-economic considerations that governed the working of medieval communes, nor does the conversion of the slave through baptism bring with it an automatic change in servile status.
The Impact of the National Family Planning Programme on the Quality of Care in China
Authors: Xiaoming Sun
Published: March 2007

During the past 10 years studies conducted on the quality of family planning services have examined the strengths and weaknesses of family planning in many developing countries. China's national family planning programme in the past two decades has achieved extremely successful benchmarks, and accelerated the pace of fertility transi tion. It is one of the world's most closely watched family planning programmes, often sparking intense debates about reproductive behaviour and reproductive rights. This study evaluates a variety of elements on the quality of family planning services by analysing survey data and historically reviewing the development of China's national family planning programme. The author argues that the quality of family planning services in China is influenced greatly by the national family planning policy and its implementation at the grassroots level. In particular, quality of care refers to the ser vice network, service resources, service strategic interventions and provider-client relationships. China's family planning programme is undergoing a shift from tradi tional services to comprehensive services in reproductive health, and is gradually insti tutionalising the quality of care. Although the cost of personal freedom in reproductive behaviour should be taken into consideration, this study provides evidence that China's national family planning programme has exerted a relatively positive impact on the quality of care for the world's largest population.
Penalty has no Impact on Crime:
Authors: TSEBELIS GEORGE
Published: March 2007

Existing approaches consider crime as either the consequence of antecedent social conditions or the outcome of a rational calculation by a predator who chooses crime as a utility-maximizing career. Consequently, these approaches propose either an improvement in social conditions or an increase in penalties as a means to reduce criminal activity. This article adopts a game-theoretic framework and examines crime as a game between criminals and the police. On realistic grounds, this approach represents an improvement on the conventional economic analysis of crime, concluding that under a wide variety of conditions (described by axioms 1 through 4), an increase in the severity of the penalty has no impact on criminal behavior at equilibrium. In fact, an increase in the penalty reduces the frequency of law enforcement at equilibrium. The major policy implication is that in order to reduce criminal activity at equilibrium, one has to modify the payoff structure of the police. Several variations of the model are examined.
Another Experimental Look at Individual Time Preference
Authors: HOLCOMB JAMES H. , NELSON PAUL S.
Published: March 2007

The axiomatic models of intertemporal choice assume that an individual's rate of time discount is constant. Yet a great deal of anecdotal and hypothetical evidence suggests that the discount rate is instead hyperbolic. Likewise, animal studies have also supported the hyperbolic discount rate. Very little empirical evidence exists using human subjects making salient choices. Using experimental economic methodology, support is found for the stationarity component of the discount rate assumption but not for the linearity component.
DO ARTISTS SUFFER FROM A COST-DISEASE?
Authors: Cowen Tyler , Grier Robin
Published: March 2007

We consider the Baumol-Bowen cost-disease argument from the perspective of an artist's occupational choice. Both theory and evidence suggest that the incentives to create art do not diminish and probably increase in a growing market economy. First, countervailing factors may check or limit the operation of the cost-disease. Second, artists can increase their productivity by generating new ideas. New ideas provide the base for all productivity improvements, whether in the arts or in industry. Third, the arts are not necessarily labor-intensive, as cost-disease proponents allege. Fourth, the available statistical evidence implies that economic growth has favorable effects on artistic production.
Research Trends of Stimuli-Responsive Polymer Hydrogels in Japan
Authors: Hirasa Okihiko
Published: March 2007

In recent years, biological functions have been increasingly investigated on the molecular and/or atomic level. Synthesis and assemblies of various functional polymers have also been researched. In particular, research of stimuli-responsive polymeric materials having the func tion and efficiency of a biological system has been of interest. The materials are still in the embryonic period, but there are great expectations surrounding their progress.

In this article, the research trends in Japan of stimuli-responsive polymer gel are summarized from the viewpoint of synthesis, fabrication, and applications.

On synthesis, researches have been summarized on stimuli including light, heat or temperature, pH or ion, electric field, and chemicals. On fabrication, researches have been summarized on two types of fabrication methods: chemical methods, such as grafting and hybridization; and physical methods, such as blend, microgel, film, fiber and composite. On industrial applications, many at tempts have been made in recent years concerning the released control of chemicals, especially drug delivery systems. Controls of adsorption, permeation, and enzyme reaction using stimuli-responsive polymer gels have also been attempted in the chemical engineering and bioengineering fields. On applications to actuators, the construction of some micro-actuating systems has been attempted. The stimuli-responsive polymer gels (chemomechanical gels) are very promising, both in the field of fundamental study and in the field of applied research.
Adaptive Compensation of Piezoelectric Sensoriactuators
Authors: Cole Daniel G. , Clark Robert L.
Published: March 2007

An adaptive filter is used to estimate the feedthrough capacitance of a piezoelectric sensoriactuator in this work. The mechanical response of the piezostructure is resolved from the electrical response of the piezoelectric device through standard adaptive signal processing tech niques. Two common adaptive algorithms are reviewed for the given application: the LMS and the RLS. For spectrally white inputs the adaptation of the digital compensator yields a filter output which is proportional to the electrical response of the piezoelectric device. Thus, the remaining elec trical signal consists of the charge due to the mechanical response of the piezostructure. The adap tive filter converges to a combination of the feedthrough capacitance and the real portion of the mechanical piezostructure response, and the filter error is the quadrature component of the mechanical response. Preliminary results from the theoretical analysis and numerical simulations indicate that, under certain conditions, adaptive signal processing can be employed to realize an adaptive, sensoriactuator for simultaneous strain actuation and sensing.
Social Movement Participation in the Digital Age
Authors: Brunsting Suzanne , Postmes Tom
Published: March 2007

Motives to participate in online versus offline collective action were investigated among environmental activists in the Netherlands. A sample (N = 738) consisting of activists, sympathizers, and nonactivists, reported past and intended participation in online and offline activism. Using structural equation modeling, it was examined whether online activism was predicted by different factors than offline activism. A wide range of predictors was derived from central theories about mobilization and collective action, including identification, relative deprivation, attitudes, subjective norm, perceived efficacy of action, and self-efficacy. Results show that when compared with offline actions, participation in online actions was slightly more motivated by cognitive calculations (efficacy) and less by affective factors (identification). Moreover, results reflect the popularity and potential of the Internet for activities that surpass the individual. This research gives an empirical insight in the influence of Internet on motives for collective action and on the participation of peripheral members.
Carkhuff, Maslow, and Interpersonal Perception in Small Groups
Authors: Neville Bernie W.
Published: March 2007

With consideration of Carkhuff's and Maslow's models of effective functioning, two studies examine contrasts between high functioning (HF) and low functioning (LF) persons in small groups. HF persons show closer association for a set of relevant variables than do LFpersans, suggesting the presence of a general effectiveness factor. HF persons tend to perceive interpersonal effectiveness as a gestalt, while LF persons perceive interpersonal dimensions as operating independently.
Humor in the Workplace
Authors: Vinton Karen L.
Published: March 2007

This article focuses on the function of humor in a small, family-owned business and presents the taxonomy of humor that was found. The various types of humor help maintain low status differentials and help alleviate workplace tension. Humor also has implications for socialization of employees and appears to help create bonds among the employees.
Enhancing Learning Capabilities by Providing Transparency in Business Simulators
Authors: Größler Andreas , Maier Frank H. , Milling Peter M.
Published: March 2007

Prefabricated computer-based simulations usually offer a user-friendly interface. This allows inexperienced users fast access to the simulation because they do not have to possess specific knowledge about simulation techniques. Thus, giving simulation models an easy-to-use interface increases the acceptance of the simulation tool and draws attention to it. Learners are not only able to examine the results of their decisions but also the causes of these results using powerful system dynamics diagramming techniques. This adds transparency to the former black-boxes, producing so-called transparent-box business simulators. This article reports on an experiment evaluating the relevance and effects of structural transparency. This experimental design also can be used to examine other types of business simulators. Hypotheses regarding the effectiveness of transparency were tested. Results show the necessity for further research and collaboration.
The Design and Evolution of a Simulation/Game for Teaching Information Systems Development
Authors: Martin Andrew
Published: March 2007

This article reflects on the design and evolution of an innovative simulation/game for teaching information systems development from a management perspective. The motivation for the work is presented, and a framework for design from validation theory is discussed. The design of a board game called THE MIS GAME is described in terms of its content and process, and its strengths and weaknesses are analyzed in the light of experience. Next the article describes the game’s redesign as a computer-based simulation/game, INFORMATION SYSTEMS PROJECT MANAGER. The role of strategy in both versions is discussed. The respective contribution of each version, both as teaching resources and research instruments, is assessed. It is concluded that computerization and strategic focus add significant value and that validation theory can inform the design of simulation/games.
You're in the Hot Seat: An Ethical Decision-Making Simulation for Counseling Students
Authors: Frame Marsha Wiggins , Flanagan Christian D. , Frederick Janet , Gold Roberta , Harris Sherre
Published: March 2007

In the counseling field, students in counseling ethics courses often have difficulty making appropriate choices in case study situations. Using Hypercard 2.2, a counseling ethics computer simulation tool was designed to address this need. The simulation enables students to consider their actions in realistic ethical counseling dilemmas and then to reflect on their decision-making processes. Classroom debriefing activities assist students in improving their ethical decision making. The simulation provides ethical decision-making practice and motivates students to take seriously the ethical dimensions of their future roles as professional counselors.
Promoting Research Productivity Among University Faculty: An Evaluation
Authors: Wodarski John S.
Published: March 2007

This article presents data from the evaluation of a multicomponent intervention to change the research productivity at 1 of the 50 largest universities in the country. The components include development of a more adequate information exchange system, a systematic approach to securing funds, grants seminars, indirect cost returns, unplanned research expenditures, and other support activities. The creation and maintenance of a positive culture for research, especially as pertinent to schools of social work, is emphasized.
Monitoring Practice on the Agency Level: An Application in a Residential Care Facility
Authors: Benbenishty Rami
Published: March 2007

This article reports on one element of a monitoring system designed to respond to the information needs of practitioners in a residential care facility for children. The aim was to assess the children's situation regularly, to document the information, and to share it with other practitioners in the agency and with outside systems. The Child Behavior Checklist was used to describe the children's behavior each month. The data were processed by a computer program. Graphic and verbal monthly outputs were presented to the practitioners regarding each child and the facility's population as a whole. The article discusses the difficult balance between the possible benefits of such a system and the awareness of its limitations.
A Measure of Critical Thinking About Practice
Authors: Gibbs Leonard , Gambrill Eileen , Blakemore Jerome , Begun Audrey , Keniston Allen , Peden Blaine , Lefcowitz Jack
Published: March 2007

This article describes a measure that assesses ability to think critically about whether to adopt a treatment method. The measure is called PRIDE1 (Principles of Reasoning, Inference, Decision-Making and Evaluation). PRIDE1 takes about 80 minutes to administer an emotional audiovisual argument and to obtain written responses. Scoring each response takes expertenced raters from 2 to 10 minutes. Pearson's r interrater reliability on 5 trials range from. .78 to 96. There was no statistically significant correlation between responses on PRIDE1 and research knowledge, as measured on the Kirk-Rosenblatt Research Knowledge Scale. This study suggests that there may be little or no association between research knowledge and ability to think critically about practice.
A Preliminary Evaluation of the Effects of a Veterans' Hospital Domiciliary Program for Homeless Persons
Authors: Lloyd-Cobb Pamela , Dixon Danny R.
Published: March 2007

The Clinical Anxiety Scale, the Generalized Contentment Scale, the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, and the Problem-Solving Inventory were administered to nine male veterans in a Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans program. All four rapid assessment instruments were administered when the veterans were admitted into the program, and again after 3 months of participation. The program had an intense focus on individual and group counseling. A t test for correlated means was conducted on the pretest-posttest scores of each instrument. All results were statistically significant, suggesting that this program is effective in helping reduce homeless veterans' feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, and helping them gain confidence in their problem-solving abilities.
Evaluating a Social Work Engagement Approach to Involving Inner-City Children and Their Families in Mental Health Care
Authors: McKay Mary McKernan , Nudelman Ruth , McCadam Kathleen , Gonzales Jude
Published: March 2007

This article will focus on increasing the ability of social workers to provide mental health services to urban, low-income children and their caretakers. A conceptual model for understanding the process of engagement will be presented. Further, a protocol for training social workers to conduct first interview/engagement interviews and the results of a study evaluating its impact will be highlighted. One hundred seven children and their families were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: (1) first interviewers trained in specific engagement skills, and (2) other therapists within an urban mental health agency. Of the 33 children assigned to first interviewers, 29 (88%) came for a first appointment and 97% (n = 28) of those returned for a second appointment. In comparison, of the 74 clients assigned to the routine first interview condition, 47 (64%) came for an initial appointment and only 83% (n = 39) returned for a second appointment. The average length of treatment during an 18-week study period for first interview subjects was 7.1 sessions, as opposed to 5.4 sessions for the comparison group. The applications of this model for social work education are discussed.
The New Female Condom: Attitudes and Opinions of Low-Income Puerto Rican Women at Risk for HIV/AIDS
Authors: Gil Vincent E.
Published: March 2007

This research investigates attitudes about and potential use of the new, FDA-approved "female condom" (known as Realityt®, or the "vaginal pouch"). The author investigates perceived feasibility of this product for personal use, capacity of women to introduce this device to partners in conversation, perceived ability by women to negotiate its use, perceptions of product efficacy, and attributions accorded the device through demonstration and physical manipulation. Data from prior research in this population by the author are used to test relationships between attributions held about male condom use and sexual negotiation and attitudes reported about the female condom. Women's responses were trended positively toward the female condom, with a sizable percentage willing to try the device. The female condom emerged, attitudinally, as a promising vehicle for female protection among Hispanic females studied. Substantive support and education, however, should be made available concurrently to these women and their male partners.
Cheating Goes Hi-Tech: Online Term Paper Mills
Authors: Campbell Constance R. , Swift Cathy Owens , Denton Luther(Trey)
Published: March 2007

As part of the explosive growth in usage of the Internet, an increasing number of vendors are using this medium to make term papers available for students to purchase. This article provides information for management and organizational behavior faculty with regard to the availability of term papers for sale to students over the Internet. A sampling of term paper providers, along with the services they offer and their price structures, are given. Examples of paper titles that are specifically targeted toward management and organizational behavior are also provided. The article concludes with suggestions for ways in which instructors can deal with the proliferation of term paper providers.
Preparing Students to Determine Personally Appropriate Political Behavior
Authors: Comer Debra R.
Published: March 2007

Although textbooks of organizational behavior and management commonly include chapters on power and organizational politics, they uniformly ignore how to develop competency in these areas. Yet students would benefit from learning that organizational politics affects decision making and that their own political behavior can reflect both organizational goals and their individual interests and preferences. To help students determine appropriate political behavior, this article presents guidelines superimposing individual differences on existent models of politics and provides an experiential vehicle for introducing these guidelines.
Gender, Bureaucracy, and the Business Curriculum
Authors: Mills Albert J.
Published: March 2007

This article aims at developing strategies for teaching gender as a central element in the business curriculum. The author explores various social, ethical, pedagogical, and performance reasons for studying gender at work, and he offers some strategies for inserting gender into the everyday business curriculum. The article also furnishes readers with a list of useful educational sources.
Notes on "Running an Organization"
Authors: Vaill Peter
Published: March 2007

This article is concerned with the education and training of those who are in a position to direct activities in business, government agencies, the health system, and other institutions and organizations. According to the author, running an organization is not the sum of a set of competencies. In addition to a discussion of the need for, and difficulties of, providing for future leader-managers, the article includes five broad principles that should suffuse any degree program or training program that purports to be about leading and managing organizations.
A Comparison of Three Methods of Performance Appraisal with Regard to Goal Properties, Goal Perception, and Ratee Satisfaction
Authors: Tziner Aharon , Joanis Christine , Murphy Kevin R.
Published: March 2007

The effects of rating scale formats on several indices of the usefulness of performance appraisal for employee development were examined. The job performance of 96 police officers was rated using simple graphic scales or one of two behaviorally oriented rating formats: behaviorally anchored rating scales (BARS) and behavior observation scales (BOS). As predicted, ratees’ satisfaction with performance appraisal was highest and their perceptions of performance goals most favorable when using BOS. In addition, performance improvement goals for officers rated using BOS were judged by experts to be most observable and specific. Contrary to the authors’ predictions, graphic rating scales were generally as good as BOS and as good as or better than BARS when evaluated in terms of ratee attitudes and goal characteristics. The results suggest that different behaviorally-oriented rating formats can enhance or inhibit the developmental applications of performance appraisal.
Correlates of Organizational and Professional Commitment
Authors: Parasuraman Saroj , Nachman Sidney A.
Published: March 2007

Survey data gathered from 65 musicians in an east coast symphony orchestra were used to examine the correlates of commitment to the organization and commitment to the music profession. The study results indicate that the two types of commitment are the product of different antecedent factors and have different implications for musicians' continued membership in the orchestra. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
A Decision Support System for a Concurrent Design of Cable Harnesses: Conceptual Approach and Implementation
Authors: Cerezuela Catherine , Cauvin Aline , Boucher Xavier , Kieffer Jean-Paul
Published: March 2007

This paper presents the conceptual design and experimental validation of a Decision Support System built in a concurrent en gineering context This system aims at supporting the design of cable harnesses, that is an important step in the design of electrical equipment of complex assembled products. Here, the validation has been made through the industrial case of helicopters' design The CAD tool uses the association of two different methods that proved useful for decision aid constraints propagation and multicriteria evaluation. Such an association offers a relevant solution for concurrent engineering. Constraints and criteria express technical knowl edge into elementary units easy understandable and easy to pass around. Those two concepts make it easier to integrate production knowledge and design knowledge. We shall present here the technical domain we refer to (electrical field), the industrial context for the validation (MODES project), and a comparison to another approach with similar objectives (Stanford University DSS).
Design Model Sharing in Concurrent Engineering: Theory and Practice
Authors: Vergeest J.S.M. , Horváth I.
Published: March 2007

The communication of design model data between participants of an engineering team is a fundamental subprocess in concur rent engineering (CE). The problems encountered in data transfer are abundant. It is understood that data transfer should be enhanced to ward knowledge transfer. Although it is possible to define what knowledge transfer is in general terms, it is crucial to specify it at the subprocess level; only then loss-less data communication can be implemented in practice. We, therefore, need to specify the conditions for successful data transfer subprocesses. In this paper we investigate which conditions are specific for CE. They are then formulated using the finite automaton formalism. From these conditions it can be concluded which measures should be taken in order to avoid data exchange problems and hence to support knowledge sharing. Examples are provided and an outlook to further applications is discussed.
Assessing the Usefulness of a Taxonomy of Design Requirements for Manufacturing
Authors: Gershenson John K. , Stauffer Larry A.
Published: March 2007

An assessment of the usefulness of a taxonomy of design requirements for manufacture is presented. The taxonomy describes the various issues that manufacturing imposes on the design of a product. The requirements themselves can be entered into this taxonomy at the appropriate level. The usefulness of this taxonomy is shown experimentally to determine whether the benefits of using it are worth the work it necessitates. The three-level taxonomy is relatively complete, perceptually orthogonal, and consistent in its level of abstractness. All of these factors constitute a sound taxonomy. Use of the taxonomy led to a greater number of requirements which were, overall, much more useful to the development of a quality product.
Introduction
Authors: Walsh William M.
Published: March 2007

What is your reaction to these different philosophies of treatment? The same case conceptualized by two prominent theorists-one systemic, the other intrapsychic-presents some similarities and many differences. Because most readers of this journal will identify more readily with the systems model, the perceptual-experiential model may produce some theoretical and practical dissonance. Think about it, and let us know your reaction.
The Elusive Elixir of Hope
Authors: Hof Larry
Published: March 2007

Hope is defined, potential blocks to it are explored, and ways and means of instilling hope are examined. Emphasized are the therapist's understanding, appreciation, and use of (a) the dynamics of change, (b) the learning styles of the individuals in treatment and the ways they access information, (c) the stages of therapy, and (d) a variety of techniques for fostering hope.
Using Faces II to Classify the Relationship Status of Battered Women
Authors: Griffin Jean E. , D'Andrea Livia M.
Published: March 2007

The use of discriminant analysis to classify the relationship status of battered women using their responses to the FACES II Cohesion and Adaptability Inventory was investigated. The data came from 96 women who reported having been, or were currently in, abusive relationships. The volunteers were recruited by advertisements in newsletters and newspapers in two western states. The results suggest that certain items on the Abusive Relationship FACES II instrument might be valuable in classifying women as being either currently in or currently out of an abusive relationship. Implications for these findings are discussed.
A Feminist Revision of Contemporary Sex Therapy
Authors: Keystone Marianne , Carolan Marsha T.
Published: March 2007

This article critiques contemporary sex therapy from afeminist perspective. The long-held tenets of traditional sex therapy based on dysfunction and pathology, as reified in the DSM-IV, are called into question. Intercourse, orgasm, and erection as goals of contemporary sex therapy as well as the underlying presumption of compulsory heterosexuality are examined. At the center of the model are women and issues of gender recognizing that equity and power issues, particularly in heterosexual relationships, are central issues. Three case studies illustrate the feminist sex therapy model.
The Neurofibrillary Pathology of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Goedert Michel
Published: March 2007

Abundant neurofibrillary lesions in certain brain regions constitute one of the defining neuropathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease, where their presence correlates with the degree of dementia. An understanding of the mechanisms that lead to the neurofibrillary pathology is critical for elucidating the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Neurofibrillary lesions consist of neurofibrillary tangles, neuropil threads, and abnormal neurites. Ultrastructurally, each of these lesions consists of abnormal paired helical and straight filaments. These filaments are made of the six brain isoforms of microtubule-associated protein tau in a hyperphosphorylated and an abnormally phosphorylated state. Several candidate protein kinases and protein phosphatases for the hyperphos phorylation of tau have been identified. Moreover, recent results suggest that an interaction between tau protein and sulfated glycosaminoglycans may play an important role in inducing both the hyperphosphor ylation of tau and the formation of paired helical and straight filaments. NEUROSCIENTIST 3:131-141, 1997
Essay: Seeing Science
Authors: TRUMBO JEAN
Published: March 2007

This article explores some of the issues associated with the visual communication of science and emphasizes the important role of research in contributing to public understanding of visual science. The visual literacy requirements of scientists and science communicators are highlighted through in-person interviews. This article also suggests a number of research opportunities based on the scenarios that are described. Two areas of interest—visual literacy and collaborative approaches to science communication—are emphasized.
The Effect of Family Communication Patterns on Young People's Science Literacy
Authors: PINGREE SUZANNE , HAWKINS ROBERT P. , BOTTA RENÉE A.
Published: March 2007

Given the rapid pace and complexity of science today, science literacy cannot mean understanding all of science. Rather, science literacy more appropriately means the critical evaluation of sources of information and basic standards of scientific performance as a guide to accepting and applying scientific knowledge to one's own life. The development of science literacy in children is probably shaped by other norms and experiences. This study examined the impact of family communication patterns on children's evaluations of a science story that contained a number of weaknesses. A family orientation toward concepts led to children's self-reported thinking about science issues when they considered the science information in the story. However, this led to actual critiques of the science in the story only when the concept-orientation was not accompanied by a simultaneous socio-orientation, the family orientation toward harmony and hierarchy.
The Consensus Development Program
Authors: Asch Susan M. , Lowe Charles Upton
Published: March 2007

The consensus development program at the National Institutes of Health, built upon communication theory, seeks to evaluate, through collegial and community interaction, emerging health technologies and transfer those that pass muster to health care providers.
Information as a Factor of Power and Influence
Authors: Leemans Arne
Published: March 2007

Information processes are part of a policymaking process. Information is one of the main bases for power and influence. The way in which actors build up and use information codetermines their power and influence in the policymaking process. The policymaking concerning the largest Dutch public works scheme, the Delta plan for protection against the sea, is a striking example how information is used and abused for building up a position of power and for influencing the decision making.
Communicating the Results of Evaluation Studies
Authors: Fife Brian L.
Published: March 2007

A primary objective of evaluation researrh is to communicate graphic and numeric realities to dual audiences—to other analysts as well as to practitioners and policymakers. A six-partmodel is presented that can assist evaluators in presenting results to dual audiences. The example chosen is school desegregation policy, but the model is intended for a wide spectrum of substantive policy areas. Evaluators can contribute positively to the policy process by examining phenomena in an empirical fashion and using a sound methodology and measurement strategy, yet the burden of proof lies with evaluators in conveying the results of their own analyses. It is the evaluator's responsibility to convey the necessary information as clearly as possible, without relying on oversimplification.
Research Evidence on the Validity of Risk-Adjusted Mortality Rate as a Measure of Hospital Quality of Care
Authors: Thomas J. William , Hofer Timothy P.
Published: March 2007

For more than 10 years, reports comparing quality of care in hospitals have been disseminated to the public. The most commonly used measure in these reports is hospital mortality rate. Despite the resources devoted to analyzing and disseminating mortality data, little attention has been given to the question of their validity as a quality measure. In this article, the authors synthesize findings from 18 articles identified as providing information relevant to this issue. From this review, the authors find evidence that poor quality care increases patients' risk of mortality and that, on average, quality of care provided in hospitals identified as high—mortality rate outliers is poorer than that provided in low—mortality rate outlier hospitals. Nevertheless, a clear conclusion from these studies is that when used as a measure of quality for individual hospitals, risk-adjusted mortality rates are seriously inaccurate. Publication of hospital mortality rates misinforms the public about hospital quality.
Social Isolation of Neglectful Families: A Review of Social Support Assessment and Intervention Models
Authors: DePanfilis Diane
Published: March 2007

Child neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment reported to public Child Protective Services. Sufficient evidence exists that families who are socially isolated, experience loneliness, and lack social support in both rural and urban settings may be more prone to neglect than matched comparison groups. This article reviews the relationship between neglect and these factors and contrasts models for assessing and intervening with neglectful families. Results suggest that modest improvements in the parenting behavior of neglectful parents can be achieved through the following: (a) differential assessment; (b) a multiservice approach; (c) intense social contacts with a volunteer, lay therapist, or parent aide; (d) use of modeling, coaching, rehearsing, and feedback to improve social interaction skills; (e) development of personal networks; and (f) structured parenting and support groups for socialization, support, and social and parenting skill building.
Information Integration in Child Welfare Cases: An Introduction to Statistical Decision Making
Authors: Ruscio John
Published: March 2007

Workers in the field of child maltreatment are required to make many complex and far-reaching decisions every week. In this article, two general methods for formulating decision-making policies are presented, along with a discussion of the considerable research literature demonstrating the superior predictive validity of statistical decision models over clinical prediction. A series of illustrative contrasts between the two approaches highlights the desirable mathematical properties of statistical equations as well as the cognitive biases and limitations inherent in unaided human judgment. Reasons for practitioners' adherence to the clinical approach are explored, with specific reference to child welfare decision making. Finally, recommendations are provided for enhancing the efficiency, validity, and ethical defensibility of decision making that seriously impacts the lives of children and their families.
Maltreatment by Parents and Peers: The Relationship between Child Abuse, Bully Victimization, and Psychological Distress
Authors: Duncan Renae D.
Published: March 2007

In this retrospective study, 210 college freshmen completed questionnaires assessing frequency of childhood emotional, physical, and sexual abuse; childhood bully victimization by peers; and current psychological distress. It was found that those who were bully victims experienced higher rates of emotional (M = 25.57 vs. 17.01) and physical maltreatment (M = 2.96 vs. 0.94) by parents and more childhood sexual assaults (29% vs. 9%) than those who were not childhood bully victims. It was also found that as young adults, those who were victims of both abuse and bullying in childhood reported significantly higher levels of distress on the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised Global Severity Index (T = 67.33) than those who were abused but not bullied (60.91), were bullied but not abused (59.75), or were nonvictims of abuse or bullying (59.44). In addition, having received injuries, which required medical treatment, as a result of being bullied and frequency of verbal bullying explained a significant proportion of the variance in distress above that already explained by a history of child abuse.
That's a Good Story, But Is It Really Research?
Authors: Ceglowski Deborah
Published: March 2007

This article chronicles the author's journey of writing short stories. Following an opening story, the author explains how she wrote short stories and field notes during her study of Head Start policy Initially, the stories captured the author's emotive and physical memories of mundane and extraordinary events. Later, with the help of Norman Denzin, the stories became part of a research text. Acknowledging that researchers are encouraged to write experimental texts, the author argues that there are few exemplars in educational research of such work. The author then describes and shows how she combined short stories with connecting text. The connecting text provides historical and cultural background on policies depicted in the story. The article concludes by raising questions about how short stories will be evaluated by qualitative methodologists and other researchers.
The Ethics of Teaching in Qualitative Research
Authors: Lincoln Yvonna S.
Published: March 2007

Although new-paradigm researchers often teach enlarged versions of ethics, they rarely, if ever, write about the ethics of teaching interpretivist inquiry. Five problems associated uniquely with the teaching of such inquiry are identified: (a) teacher modeling of a safe psychological classroom environment for students; (b) teaching students authentic collaboration; (c) fostering dialogues in racism, sexism, and classism; (d) high tolerance for "taboo" topics such as sex in the field; and (e) willingness to make judgments regarding the maturity of students to undertake field work, especially in sensitive sites.
“When You're Involved, It's Just Different”
Authors: Berns Nancy , Schweingruber David
Published: February 2007

This article explores how people make sense of domestic violence. The authors argue that it is easier to make sense of other people's problems than your own. If people are trying to understand a social problem with which they are personally involved, they are likely to engage in interpretive work that connects their own experiences with the problem and with a possible troubled identity. However, the person not involved in the social problem does not have the additional troubled identity construction occurring. This process of evaluating claims and constructing different narratives of the self and the social problem helps explain the differences between victims' and nonvictims' understandings of social issues.
The Reciprocal Relationship Between Sexual Victimization and Sexual Assertiveness
Authors: Livingston Jennifer A. , Testa Maria , VanZile-Tamsen Carol
Published: February 2007

Low sexual assertiveness has been proposed as a possible mechanism through which sexual revictimization occurs, yet evidence for this has been mixed. In this study, prospective path analysis was used to examine the relationship between sexual refusal assertiveness and sexual victimization over time among a community sample of women. Results provide support for a reciprocal relationship, with historical victimization predicting low sexual assertiveness and low sexual assertiveness predicting subsequent victimization. The effect of recent sexual victimization on subsequent sexual assertiveness also was replicated prospectively. These findings suggest that strengthening sexual assertiveness may help reduce vulnerability to future victimization.