bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Principles of Non‐Verbal Communication in Efforts to Reduce Peer and Social Pressure
Authors: Duryea Elias J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Nonverbal communication literature contains salient and pragmatic principles relevant to peer pressure refusal components in school health education curricula. Yet, this literature has not been analyzed or integrated into health education interventions. Basic nonverbal components that could be applied to peer pressure resistance programs, such as gaze (eye behavior), stance and proxemics (space), gesture and emblems, and facial expression, are reviewed. Assertiveness literature and nonverbal communication also are summarized. Selected nonverbal resistance strategies are proposed for future peer pressure reduction efforts. A distinction is made between peer “pressure” conceptualized as nonverbal and peer “persuasion” viewed as verbal. Recommendations to incorporate relevant nonverbal concepts into the peer “pressure” components of school health education curricula are proposed.
AIDS/HIV Articles Published in Selected Professional Health Journals: 1981–1990
Authors: Fennell Reginald
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Journals from five professional associations were reviewed to determine the response to AIDS/HIV in their journal: Association for the Advancement of Health Education (AAHE) and Journal of Health Education; American College Health Association (ACHA) and Journal of American College Health; American Public Health Association (APHA) and American Journal of Public Health; American School Health Association (ASHA) and Journal of School Health, and the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) and Health Education Quarterly. The project posed the following questions: 1) How many articles on AIDS/HIV were published in the selected journals during the 10‐year period from 1981 through 1990? 2) What types of articles were published during the period, such as editorials, recommendations, guidelines, and research? and 3) What approaches were shown effective in changing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior? The first article appeared in 1984; 239 articles were published in the five journals reviewed. Each journal devoted at least one entire issue to AIDS/HIV. The articles were categorized as either applied (43.9%) or data‐based (56.1 %). Since most articles with a research focus did not include pretest and posttest measurements, it proved difficult to determine the most effective methods for changing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. Evaluation methods that assess the effectiveness of interventions in changing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior are needed.
A Legislative Perspective on the School Nurse and Education for Children with Disabilities in New Jersey
Authors: Repetto Mary A. , Hoeman Shirley P.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The New Jersey Dept. of Education has proposed a new direction for interpreting the “Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975” (Public Law 94–142). If implemented, a new and broader scope of addressing learning and/or behavior and health problems for the school‐aged child will be provided. In this article, the special education process in New Jersey is analyzed, reflecting on political, economic, and social movements that affected past and present legislation. The effects of the new proposal on students, families, school personnel, and community resources are emphasized. Role implications for the school nurse in formulating, interpreting, and managing the child with disability in school are provided.
HIV‐Related Knowledge, Beliefs, and Behaviors Among High School Students in the United States: Results from a National Survey
Authors: Kann Laura , Anderson John E. , Holtzman Deborah , Ross Jim , Truman Benedict I. , Collins Janet , Kolbe Lloyd J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Secondary School Student Health Risk Survey measured the prevalence of sexual intercourse and illegal drug injection among a national probability sample of U.S. high school students and assessed their HIV‐related knowledge and beliefs. Ninety‐nine (81%) of the 122 selected schools and 8,098 (83%) of the eligible students participated. Nearly all high school students knew the major modes of HIV transmission. Three percent reported injecting illegal drugs, and 1 % reported sharing needles used to inject drugs. In addition, 59% of students reported having sexual intercourse and, of students who reported having sexual intercourse, 40% reported having four or more sexual partners. HIV‐related knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors among high school students suggest the need for school‐based HIV education programs that help young people acquire the knowledge and skills to adopt and maintain behaviors that reduce risk of HIV infection and other related health problems.
Is Childhood Obesity Associated with High‐Fat Foods and Low Physical Activity?
Authors: Muecke Lee , Simons‐Morton Bruce , Huang Iris Wei , Parcel Guy
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Childhood obesity is a major health problem with serious long‐term health implications. Efforts to determine risk factors beyond genetic predisposition have been equivocal. Common notions of overeating and under‐exercising as causes have not been supported by prior research. This combined prevalence and case‐control study analyzed a population of children ages 8–10 to ascertain the association between exposure to high‐fat foods and low levels of exercise, and obesity. The sample population of Texas school children revealed a 100% greater prevalence of childhood obesity relative to national normative standards established from 1976–1980. Neither high‐fat food intake nor reported level of physical activity were independent risk factors for this condition. However, they may exert a synergistic effect when both are present in the same child. Development of more sophisticated population‐based instruments will enable larger studies to investigate risk factors for childhood obesity.
Patterns of Alcohol and Other Drug Use in an Iowa Community
Authors: Thomas Barbara S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: From a baseline survey of high school students in two school systems, information was obtained to describe patterns of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and adverse consequences of use, compare indices of AOD use and consequences for grade level and gender differences, and examine relationships of indices to selected individual, family‐related, and social competence/adjustment‐related risk factors. Though use of illicit drugs was reported at low levels, prevalence of drinking and incidence of binge drinking were relatively high. Increases in AOD use and adverse consequences with age and grade level were found, but gender differences were not found. Relationships of AOD use and adverse consequences to selected individual, family, and social risk factors were consistent with a substantial body of prior work but exceptions were found. Strongest correlations to both indices were found for risk taking, sense of mastery, family management/cohesion, peer pressure, and social/school adjustment.
Using the PRECEDE Model to Determine Junior High School Students' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs about AIDS
Authors: Alteneder Ruth R. , Price James H. , Telljohann Susan K. , Didion Judy , Locher Ann
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The effectiveness of a one‐period school‐based AIDS education program on an adolescent population of seventh and eighth grade students (N = 585) was determined. An instrument based on the PRECEDE model was used to assess program effectiveness. Three‐way analysis of variance indicated significant differences (p v .01) between pretest to posttest scores for knowledge, attitude, and beliefs for those who received the program versus those who did not by grade and gender of students. The intervention group scored significantly higher than the comparison group on knowledge gain for both seventh and eighth grade students and for males and females. On attitude items, a significant increase occurred from pretest to posttest for eighth grade students who received the program, but not for seventh grade students. The experimental group of eighth grade students scored higher on the attitudes component than the comparison of eighth grade students on the posttest. When attitudes were examined by gender for females in the educational intervention, an increase occurred in attitude scores from pretest to posttest. While belief scores increased significantly from pretest to posttest for the experimental seventh and eighth grade students, significant increases occurred only for experimental group females. Findings support the contention that a one‐class period AIDS education program can affect more than just knowledge since attitudes and beliefs also were partially affected.
Drug Use and Anticipated Parental Reaction Among Rural School Pupils in Zimbabwe
Authors: Munodawafa Davison , Marty Phillip J. , Gwede Clement
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Study participants included 285 secondary school pupils in Zimbabwe who responded to a questionnaire assessing alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use, and anticipated parental reaction to the pupil's drug‐taking behavior. Results showed nearly 17% of the sample had used alcohol, 8% used tobacco, and 5% had used marijuana during the past seven days prior to questionnaire administration. Results regarding intentions to use alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana in the future show pupils' interest highest in using alcohol. Nearly 34% indicated intentions to use alcohol during the next year, while 16% reported intentions to use tobacco, and 12.9% indicated intentions to use marijuana. Nearly 17% reported they felt their parents would be favorable to their use of alcohol. Anticipated parental approval for tobacco and marijuana was 13.6% and 10.8%, respectively. Though current use and future intentions among the sample are not as high compared to similar populations in developed countries, this study suggests Zimbabwe should consider expanding its drug education effort in the school setting. Research to identify effective educational strategies to curb further increases in adolescent drug taking behavior also needs to be explored and identified.
Use of a School Referendum to Deter Teen‐age Tobacco Use
Authors: Males Mike
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Montana's 1991 school “tobacco referendum,” authorized by the state legislature and approved by about 60% of approximately 50,000 students voting in grades 7–12, represents an innovative attempt to include youth in decisions regarding tobacco and health and to decisively demonstrate peer disapproval of tobacco use. The referendum asked students whether tobacco sellers should voluntarily refuse to sell cigarettes and tobacco to persons younger than age 18. Montana is one of five states which allow tobacco sales to minors but has one of the nation's lowest youth smoking rates. The statewide referendum follows the successful example of the Bozeman, Montana, school district's 1990 tobacco referendum, in which 80% of the 2,200 grade 7–12 students and staff voted to make their schools “tobacco‐free.”
Peer Perceptions of Adolescent Health Behaviors
Authors: Ransom Mary Virginia
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Perceptions adolescents form of peers in relation to modeled health behaviors were examined. Five hundred ten adolescents, ages 12–15, from eight midwest schools were shown a slide of a male or female adolescent displaying a health behavior artifact (apple, tennis racket, cigarette, beer can), or without an artifact and asked to rate the model on 16 characteristics using a semantic differential scale. Data were factor analyzed using principle components analysis and a 2times2x5 MANOVA. Results indicated that models appeared less mature when holding a beer can or cigarette. In addition, the female model was rated more popular than the male in the control and beer can depictions. The influence of modeled behaviors on traits adolescents want to develop must be understood to present effective health education programs. Educational efforts should include consideration of the perceptions adolescents hold of their peers' health behaviors.
Teen Contraception in the 1990s
Authors: Pollack Amy E.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Basic information about appropriate contraceptive methods for teen‐agers is provided. Methods most commonly used will be reviewed and an overview of alternative methods available for use in special subgroups will be provided.
School‐Based Prenatal and Postpartum Care: Strategies for Meeting the Medical and Educational Needs of Pregnant and Parenting Students
Authors: Stevens‐Simon Catherine , Beach Roberta K.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Adolescent pregnancy is not a new phenomenon, but it is a source of concern to U.S. educators because of the many young women choosing to become parents and the profound effect early childbearing has on the educational and vocational careers of many young Americans. Strategies for addressing the unique medical, educational, and psychosocial needs of pregnant and parenting students will be examined. Documented physical and psychosocial risks associated with adolescent childbearing will be reviewed, and data related to the effect of young maternal age on pregnancy outcome and the effect of pregnancy on the life course development of adolescents will be emphasized. Specific elements of comprehensive, adolescent‐oriented prenatal and postnatal care will be discussed, as well as the effectiveness of existing prenatal and postnatal programs at preventing the most serious sequelae of adolescent childbearing. The role of school‐based services will be examined, and ways will be discussed for educators and health care providers to collaborate in providing medical, educational, and social services for adolescent parents and their children. In addition, topics for future research will be suggested.
Consequences of Teen‐Age Parenting
Authors: Nord Christine Winquist , Moore Kristin A. , Morrison Donna Ruane , Brown Brett , Myers David E.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The changing context of teen‐age childbearing and current related controversies are reviewed. Recent research about the consequences of teen‐age childbearing for the teen‐age mother, the father, and for the children born is examined. The article also summarizes current knowledge about the consequences of teen‐age childbearing with regard to the mother's educational attainment, marital experience, subsequent fertility behavior, labor force experience and occupational attainment, and experience with poverty and welfare.
Abortion Among Adolescents: Research Findings and the Current Debate
Authors: Zabin Laurie Schwab , Sedivy Valerie
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Utilizing research that focuses on adolescents as well as findings in samples which might have special relevance to young, unmarried women, this report summarizes research on the consequences of abortion among adolescents. It discusses prior literature in the area of parental notification and parental consent, subjects on which public opinion is not divided along familiar pro‐choice/anti‐choice lines. Following a discussion of methodological problems identified in prior research, it reports on a study designed to address these problems in an adolescent population; it discusses implications for the current debate of this and other studies' findings that there are no identifiable adverse sequelae of the abortion process.
Adolescents and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Authors: Yarber William L. , Parrillo Anthony V.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a serious health problem for adolescents, occurring in an estimated one‐quarter of sexually active teen‐agers. Many of the health problems – including STDs – result from specific risk‐taking behaviors. Determinants of STD risks among adolescents include behaviorial, psychological, social, biological, institutional factors. Education is an important component in STD control in adolescents. The goal of education is to increase adolescent self‐efficiency in practicing STD prevention and risk‐reduction. A comprehensive approach including quality, theory‐based education, accessible and effective health clinics, and improved social and economic conditions has the most promise of controlling STDs in adolescents.
Making Sexuality Education and Prevention Programs Relevant for African‐American Youth
Authors: Pittman Karen J. , Wilson Pamela M. , Adams‐Taylor Sharon , Randolph Suzanne
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A demographic and cultural profile of African‐American youth is presented. Culturally‐based differences in decision‐making are reviewed. Attitudes and cultural values related to identity and self‐image, gender role socialization, contraception, marriage and parenthood, homosexuality, and HIV/AIDS are described. Recommendations and strategies to make sexuality education and pregnancy prevention programs relevant to African‐American youth are offered.
Creating a Safer School Environment for Lesbian and Gay Students
Authors: Treadway Leo , Yoakam John
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Information obtained from clinical experiences of the University of Minnesota Youth and AIDS Project (YAP), a primary AIDS prevention program for gay and bisexual males ages 14–21, is described. More than 300 YAP clients have been interviewed regarding sexual behavior, suicide attempts, drug use, and experiences in disclosing their homosexuality to peers and parents during their high school years. The authors also have drawn from their experiences as support group leaders for gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth in high school and community settings. Constructive and destructive coping strategies employed by gay, lesbian, and bisexual students are described. Roles and responsibilities of school professionals to create a safer school environment also are presented. Key issues include how school professionals support or deny the existence of homosexuality in young people; how adults' biases against homosexuality, as well as institutionalized heterosexism, prevent lesbian and gay students from succeeding in school; how language, behaviors, and environmental cues contribute to school professionals' approachability; how children of lesbian and gay parents suffer when negative attitudes toward homosexuality are not challenged; and what resources and referrals can help lesbian and gay young people.
A Formative Evaluation of the American Cancer Society Changing the Course Nutrition Education Curriculum
Authors: Contento Isobel R. , Kell Diane G. , Keiley Margaret K. , Corcoran Ruth D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A formative evaluation was conducted of Changing the Course, a behaviorally oriented, activity‐based nutrition education curriculum for elementary students from the American Cancer Society, to assess feasibility of program implementation. Sixteen teachers in six schools in the Northeast taught the 15–16 session lower and upper elementary curricula to 702 students. Teacher satisfaction with the curriculum was high. Fidelity of implementation of the curriculum also was high and relatively few modifications to learning activities were made. Teachers reported the one day of training they received was adequate. They also reported a positive influence of the curriculum on themselves and their students. Student achievement results showed most children achieved most of the learning objectives at posttest — 80% giving the correct answers on more than 75% of the test items. An examination of children's item‐by‐item answers on the posttest and of teachers' logs provided information useful for the final stages of development of the curricula and teacher training procedures, before national dissemination.
HIV Education and Health Education in the United States: A National Survey of Local School District Policies and Practices
Authors: Holtzman Deborah , Greene Brenda Z. , Ingraham Gwendolen C. , Daily Lisa A. , Demchuk David G. , Kolbe Lloyd J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: To determine the extent to which HIV education and health education policies and practices are required by school districts in the United States, a national probability sample of public school districts was surveyed by mail in 1990. Of 2,150 districts selected, 78.1% responded. HIV education was required by 66.9% of districts. Of these, the percentage requiring HIV education increased by grade level from 29.7% in kindergarten to 82.3% in 7th grade, then declined to 37.3% by 12th grade. Districts that required HIV education most often addressed HIV‐related prevention skills in the upper grade levels. Similar to requirements for HIV education, health education requirements also declined from 7th to 12th grade, reaching even lower levels than HIV education by the last two years of high school. These declines are of particular concern given that students are most likely to engage in risk behaviors when HIV and health education is least likely to be required. Other practices and policies that support HIV and health education also were lacking in many districts.
Culturally Relevant Smoking Prevention for Minority Youth
Authors: Cella David F. , Tulsky David S. , Sarafian Bernard , Thomas Charles R. , Thomas Charles R.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A rap contest methodology for smoking prevention was tested with sixth and seventh grade students in a predominantly minority public school district. Contests were held after initial assemblies in which students heard anti‐smoking rap messages from same‐age and older peers on audio and video tape. Pretesting and posttesting (N = 268) indicated high preference ratings for most aspects of the intervention. Analyses of variance revealed no differences across races on any of the dependent measures. However, smaller assemblies were more effective than larger ones in enhancing attitudes against smoking and obtaining more positive contest evaluations and predictions about smoking behavior. A rap contest method therefore may be effective against the initiation of smoking by disadvantaged children in sixth and seventh grades because it is highly acceptable and perceived as culturally relevant. This effectiveness may be more domonstrable in single classrooms rather than larger assemblies.
Impact of the Nutrition for Life Program on Junior High Students in New York State
Authors: Devine Carol M. , Olson Christine M. , Frongillo Edward A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School‐based nutrition education represents an important component in a national strategy for health promotion. This study evaluated the impact of a school‐based nutrition teaching program, Nutrition For Life, on the nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and self‐reported behavior of seventh and eighth grade students from New York State. Some 1,863 students in 103 randomly selected classes completed a paper and pencil test covering nutrition attitudes, behavior, and knowledge. Modest use of the teaching program (median use = 3 hours) was associated with modest but significant differences in nutrition attitude, behavior, and knowledge scores. Interactions among teacher assignment, nutrition teaching, and Nutrition For Life use explained significant variations in nutrition test scores. Additional exposure to the program was associated with significantly higher nutrition attitude and behavior scores in schools with a higher proportion of low‐income students.
The Status of School‐Based Nutrition Education at the State Agency Level
Authors: Shannon Barbara , Mullis Rebecca , Bernardo Valerie , Ervin Bethene , Poehler David L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The status of school‐based nutrition education at the state agency level was examined. Telephone interviews with agencies in all 50 states revealed that nine states mandated nutrition be taught and another 21 included nutrition as a required topic in mandated subjects, frequently health. The other states had initiatives to promote school‐based nutrition education but it was not required. Published requirements for teacher certification in elementary education, home economics, and health education seldom (two to three states) specified nutrition as a requirement. However, follow‐up investigations revealed many states indirectly promote nutrition preparation for home economics and health education teachers through guidelines for approval of college programs in these areas. An inventory of nutrition education curricular materials revealed they were most frequently directed to grades K‐6 and focused mainly on general foods and nutrition or that related to health. Given the links that emerged between health and nutrition, incorporating nutrition into health education may help promote school‐based nutrition education. (J Sch Health. 1992;62(3):88–92)
HIV/AIDS Education in Indiana Public Schools, Grades 7–12
Authors: Ellis Nancy T. , Torabi Mohammad R.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Indiana secondary school principals were surveyed regarding HIV/AIDS education status in their schools. A questionnaire from the Centers for Disease Control was evaluated then modified for the survey. More than 520 school principals responded to the questionnaire mailed to all 680 school principals, grades 7–12, in Indiana. Most schools offer some form of HIV/AIDS education in grades 7–12. HIV education was taught by teachers with different educational backgrounds and school roles. Almost 60% of school principals believe students are at risk for HIV infection. Tests of statistical significance were conducted with regard to principals' opinions and actual practice of HIV/AIDS education in schools. Most schools have responded to the need for HIV/AIDS education, but with a variety of formats, teaching personnel, and teacher training. (J Sch Health. 1992;62(3):93–96)
Comprehensive School‐Based Services for Pregnant and Parenting Adolescents in West Dallas, Texas
Authors: Setzer Jean R. , Smith David P.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A cohort of 339 Black (n = 210), Hispanic (n = 118), and other (n = 11) adolescent mothers in Dallas, Texas, were followed from the start of their pregnancy through the school year of the delivery to assess differences in numbers of prenatal care visits, postpartum care, repeat deliveries, and school continuation rates. Approximately one‐half the teens received reproductive services at a comprehensive, school‐based clinic and one‐half at a categorical (Title XX) family planning and prenatal care clinic. Adolescents attending the school‐based clinic were more likely to be in school at conception and averaged more prenatal visits than those served by the categorical provider. However, during the pregnancy and following the delivery, school dropout rates for the two sets of teens converged. School continuation rates were higher among a subset of adolescents attending the Dallas Independent School District school for pregnant teens than among other teens. Hispanic teens were two times more likely than their Black counterparts to drop out of school. No differences were found in repeat birth rates, by ethnicity, clinic site, or school attended. (J Sch Health. 1992;62(3):97–102)
Enhancing Program Implementation and Maintenance Through a Multiphase Approach to Peer‐Based Staff Development
Authors: Gingiss Phyllis L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: School‐based health education programs often are limited by failures in implementation and maintenance. While inservice training has proven beneficial, teacher training research indicates that the more complex the demands on teachers using innovative psychosocially based health education curricula, the greater the necessity for post‐inservice follow‐up staff development. Evidence is presented that 1) teachers respond to innovations in developmental stages, 2) a multiphase approach to staff development is necessary to assist teachers during each stage, 3) post‐inservice staff development requires opportunities for teacher collaboration, 4) approaches to staff development should fit the stage of teacher development, and 5) the organizational context of staff development is critical. Peer‐based approaches to post‐inservice staff development are presented, with a review of strengths and limitations of each approach. (J Sch Health. 1992;62(5):161–166)
Adolescent Health: A Report to the U.S. Congress
Authors: Dougherty Denise , Eden Jill , Kemp Kerry B. , Metcalf Kelly , Rowe Kirsten , Ruby Gloria , Strobel Pamela , Solarz Andrea
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article reports findings from an assessment by the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA), an analytical arm of the U.S. Congress. In brief, OTA found the conventional wisdom that American adolescents as a group are so healthy that they do not require health and related services is not justified. Even more disturbing, U.S. adolescents often face formidable barriers in trying to obtain health care. OTA suggested that Congress could act to 1) increase adolescents' access to health care, most effectively by supporting school‐ or community‐based comprehensive health services specifically for adolescents, 2) restructure and reinvigorate the federal role in adolescent health, most visibly by creating an office of adolescent health in the U.S. Executive branch, and 3) improve adolescents' social environments, by providing more support to the families of adolescents, limiting adolescents' access to firearms, supporting the expansion of recreational opportunities for adolescents, and further supporting opportunities for community service. Congressional actions taken since the release of OTA's report are summarized. (J Sch Health. 1992;62(5): 167–174)
Indicators of Substance Use Among Pregnant Adolescents in the Mississippi Delta
Authors: Sarvela Paul D. , Ford Tess D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Data were collected from 293 pregnant adolescents living in the southern Illinois section of the Mississippi Delta region concerning their substance use behaviors in 1989 and 1990. Subjects used a variety of drugs in the past and present. For example, 24.4% of the sample reported they presently smoked cigarettes. Alcohol was used by 20.4% in the previous five months, while 5.2% reported marijuana use during the same period. Regression models designed to predict substance use produced adjusted r2 values of .30 (SE = 1.06) for cigarette use, .38 (SE = .49) for marijuana use, and .43 (SE = .59) for alcohol use. Significant indicators included peer and personal substance use behavior, parental substance use, and having previously received mental health treatment. (J Sch Health. 1992;62(5):175–179)
Cholesterol Screening Using the School as a Worksite
Authors: Weinberg Armin D. , Lammarino Nicholas K. , Laufman Larry , Trost Rosanne
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article illustrates the appropriateness of the school as a worksite for health promotion programs and demonstrates how cholesterol screening is an effective tool to introduce such a program into a school system. Of 1,639 employees, 1,217 elected to have their cholesterol measured (74% response rate). Forty‐five percent had elevated cholesterol according to the NIH Consensus Panel. Of these, 12% were in the “high” category (≥ 240 mg/dl) while 33% had levels that placed them in the “borderline high” risk category (200–239 mg/dl). Cholesterol screening can be incorporated easily into most school systems due to the presence of nursing staff and health educators. Systematic planning is essential for success and must include a counseling and educational intervention coupled with an active referral and follow‐up program. This type of screening should be part of a multicomponent health promotion program.
“Smoking Doesn't Work:” A Smoking Prevention Project for Women Attending a Technical Institute
Authors: Moore Susan Morton , Daly Kathy , McBride Colleen M. , Lodahl Michelle S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Women attending technical institutes often enroll in training programs for occupations with traditionally high smoking rates. In contrast, more worksites are implementing smoke‐free and restricted smoking policies. “Smoking Doesn't Work,” a smoking prevention project targeted at young females enrolled in a technical institute in Minnesota, used employability as the central theme in schoolwide events and classroom activities. Project intervention resulted in statistically significant increases in knowledge and awareness of smoking and employability issues. While young women enrolled in the technical institute recognized the negative image and health effects of smoking, they were less aware of the relationship between smoking status and employability. A focus on employability appears to provide a salient approach to smoking prevention with technical institute students.
Is Board Certification Necessary for School Health Educators?
Authors: Cleary Michael J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Voluntary certification through the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards currently is being promoted as a mechanism for achieving higher quality instruction in the nation's schools as well as raising the prestige of the teaching profession. This article examines controversies surrounding this movement, including the Board's decision that a teacher's eligibility to be “board certified” in school health does not depend on prior completion of a health education major. The National Board of Professional Teaching Standards believes their assessment approach will be superior to current quality controls. An analysis of existing certification, accreditation, and external review mechanisms, however, does not support this view. Policy formation strategies to ensure continued viability of Certified Health Education Specialist certification mechanisms are offered.
The Role of the Federal Government in Promoting Health Through the Schools: Report from the National School Health Education Coalition
Authors: Corry Maureen
Published: October 2009

Statement of Maureen Corry, MPH, Chair, National School Health Education Coalition, before the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, Committee on Governmental Affairs, U.S. Senate, November 14, 1991.
Today's Education Policy Environment
Authors: Sullivan Candace , Bogden James F.
Published: October 2009

Education reformers — who are shaping new kinds of schools for the future — and those promoting comprehensive school health education understand little about each other's ideas, although they share a desire to improve children's success and well‐being. If those concerned with school health education take a lead in working with education reformers, they can help to shape schools into places where health is integral to education. The powerful national movement to change the way schools operate presents an unprecedented opportunity to put health front and center.
Who Meets the Special Health Care Needs of North Carolina Schoolchildren?
Authors: Johnson M. Polly , Asay Marilyn
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In January 1991, 135 school districts and six specialty schools in North Carolina were surveyed to obtain data regarding the performance of specific health‐related procedures in the school setting. Results indicate a patchwork approach to meeting the special health care needs of these children, and that a variety of school personnel as well as parents and health professionals are involved in coordinating and performing the procedures. Teachers and teacher assistants perform these health‐related procedures 44% of the time. Registered nurses coordinate the care, including assessment, care planning, and supervision to assure continued competence of the care provider and safety for the student less than 45% of the time. Some 13 school districts reported having no school nurse services. Efforts have begun to legislate a statewide policy with appropriations for a registered nurse to provide an initial evaluation of the student's needs, develop care plan, and provide ongoing supervision of services to assure that safe, appropriate care is being provided to all students with special health‐related needs in North Carolina. (J Sch Health. 1993;63(10):417–420)
Comparison of Health Risk Behaviors Between Students in a Regular High School and Students in an Alternative High School
Authors: Grunbaum Jo Anne , Basen‐Engquist Karen
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Prevalence of selected health risk behaviors of students attending an alternative high school (AHS) designed as a dropout prevention/dropout recovery high school was determined using the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The survey also was administered to a sample of students attending a regular high school (RHS) in the same school district. A larger percentage of AHS students reported being involved in a physical fight the past year, having smoked at least one cigarette the past month, having drunk at least one drink on five or more occasions the past month, having drunk five or more drinks at least once the past month, having smoked marijuana at least once the past month, having used cocaine at least once the past month, and having ever had sexual intercourse. Results indicate a need for comprehensive health education/intervention programs to address the needs of youth in alternative school settings. (J Sch Health. 1993;63(10):421–425)
Peer Coaching: Building Collegial Support for Using Innovative Health Programs
Authors: Gingiss Phyllis Levenson
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: To ensure students achieve intended benefits from effective health programs, it is necessary to maximize program implementation and maintenance. Peer coaching provides a post‐inservice staff development approach for health educators to strengthen teacher use of new health programs during implementation trials. While peer coaching positively influences teacher behavior and student outcomes, previous coaching programs have been limited in scope, have not been theoretically derived or adequately evaluated, and have not been systematically applied to health programs. This paper addresses teacher needs during trials, reviews peer coaching program features, and proposes a model to guide future planning, evaluation, and research. In this model, critical components of the coaching program include classroom assessments, coaching team cluster meetings, and administrative support. Strategies based on Social Learning Theory and Diffusion Theory are incorporated into the peer coaching program to influence teacher perceptions of their work roles, capability to implement a program, and commitment to the new instructional program. Interrelations among components are discussed and directions for future research and practice are suggested.
Predicting Cigarette Smoking Among Adolescents Using Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Approaches
Authors: Bertrand Lorne D. , Abernathy Thomas J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The ability to identify groups of children at risk of initiating a smoking habit may prove useful in developing effective smoking prevention programs. This report includes data collected over a three‐year period, and attempts to predict adolescents' smoking behavior using both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses. In addition, predictor variables reflecting both interpersonal and intrapersonal domains were included. Results indicated the highest rates of accurate classification into smoking categories were achieved with cross‐sectional analyses. In addition, interpersonal variables emerged as most important in all analyses. Implications for smoking prevention programming are discussed.
Co‐Occurrence of Substance Use and Loneliness as a Risk Factor for Adolescent Hopelessness
Authors: Page Randy M. , Allen Ola , Moore Lou , Hewitt Calvin
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:This research among a sample of 1,915 Mississippi adolescents investigated whether lonely adolescents who use illicit substances were at increased risk of hopelessness. Relative risk of scoring within the severe hopelessness range was 6.9 for non‐substance users who were lonely and 4.2 for substance users who were not lonely. Yet, relative risk for severe hopelessness in substance‐using lonely adolescents was 25.2. Lonely, substance‐using adolescents were 25 times more likely to be severely hopeless than the reference group composed of non‐substance using, not‐lonely adolescents. Lonely adolescents who get drunk also were 15.9 times more likely to be severely hopeless than the reference group. Because hopelessness often is an indicator of suicidal behavior, these results may have important implications for school health adolescent suicide prevention efforts.
Chief State School Officers Rank Barriers to Implementing Comprehensive School Health Education
Authors: Butler Sandra Chambers
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) members were surveyed to determine their perception of barriers to implementing comprehensive school health education. CCSSO members were asked to prioritize the barriers and offer recommendations to overcome the barriers. A structured response, paired‐comparison survey instrument was developed and mailed to 56 of 57 CCSSO members. Eighty‐two percent of the members responded. CCSSO members perceived lack of administrative commitment as the number one barrier. Lack of adequately prepared teachers and insufficient time in the school day ranked second and third, respectively. While CCSSO members offered no recommendations for overcoming the number one barrier, recommendations to overcome other barriers included high‐quality and more available preservice and inservice programs for teachers.
School Health Education in the European Community
Authors: Williams Trefor , Jones Herb
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The School Health Education Commission of the European Community is making efforts to improve school health education in the European Community countries. While past efforts have involved single issue causes, current activities emphasize a holistic perception of school health education. Radical education reforms throughout the European Community advocate improved health education. The movement toward quality health education in the European Community countries uses a model called the Health Promoting School, a cooperative effort involving schools, families, and communities. The model is being promoted through three stages: 1) national conferences held in each European Community country, 2) summer schools to provide teacher training, and 3) national projects, supported by the World Health Organization, agreement conducted to determine the efficacy of the Health Promoting School Model.
School Heart Health Promotion: The National Heart Foundation (Western Australian) Approach
Authors: Shilton Trevor
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The National Heart Foundation of Australia's commitment to school health promotion expanded progressively since 1983. Following establishment of health education curriculum documents by the state Ministries of Education, the Foundation targeted schoolchildren with primary prevention programs and resources. The Foundation looked beyond instructional settings to examine the influence of the school environment on the health of students and school personnel. This paper describes a school heart health promotion model implemented by the Western Australian Division of the National Heart Foundation, serving one of Australia's eight states and territories. The model incorporates elements of policy, curriculum, environment, health services, and community interaction. Though similar to comprehensive models of school health education, this model limits its application to heart health. The program operates in a nongovernment agency with unmatched potential for national reach.
An Evaluation of a Substance Abuse Education Program for Mississippi Delta Pregnant Adolescents
Authors: Sarvela Paul D. , Ford Tess D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A non‐equivalent control group design was used to examine effectiveness of a drug and alcohol abuse prenatal care health education program for pregnant teens (N = 212) in the Mississippi delta region of southern Illinois. Experimental group posttest knowledge scores were significantly higher than control group scores; however, no significant differences occurred in attitudes between the two groups at posttest. Frequency of drug use decreased substantially for both experimental and control groups at posttest; however, significantly more experimentals than controls indicated they reduced or quit using drugs. The experimental group had a significantly lower rate of diabetes, anemia, and sexually transmitted diseases, and possibly a lower rate of spontaneous abortion depending on the statistical test used. Data suggest prenatal care health education programs may be effective methods for increasing patient awareness about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse and may have an effect on infant and maternal outcomes.
Evaluation of the West Australian School Development in Health Education Project
Authors: Carruthers Susan , James Ray
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In December 1990, the National Centre for Research into the Prevention of Drug Abuse was invited to evaluate the School Development in Health Education Project (SDHE), a national program tested in Western Australia (WA) in 1991. A formative evaluation indicated the project was moderately successful in achieving the objectives in the operational plan. Schools involved reported the project was successful, and they agreed to continue health planning meetings during 1992. The evaluation also indicated that while most schools achieved macro‐level change, they achieved little at the micro level. A significant outcome for SDHE WA was the successful application for three‐year funding to continue and expand the project as the West Australian School Health program (WASH). Recommendations generated from the SDHE evaluation produced a shift in emphasis for the WASH program from the “action research” orientation of the national program to more content‐based professional development. This study highlights the important role formative evaluation can play in developing and refining health education programs.
A Comprehensive Assessment Plan for Professional Preparation Programs in Health Education at Eastern Illinois University
Authors: Deming Marietta , Doyle Kathleen , Woods Susan
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Federal‐ and state‐mandated criteria for accountabilityhave promoted an “assessment movement” in higher education. The federal focus caused higher education's regional accrediting bodies to place greater emphasis on assessment for institutional accountability. Numerous approaches have been identified for the assessment process including comprehensive examinations, evaluation by alumni and internship preceptors, and self‐report data by students. The Role Delineation Project Curriculum Framework also has been useful in assessing curricula. Strategies used in a comprehensive assessment plan for the Health Studies Dept. at Eastern Illinois University include focus group interviews, Departmental Advisory Council review, and assessment by internship preceptors. Data indicate the professional preparation program adequately prepares students in Responsibilities I, II, III, IV, and VII. Further consideration will be given to revising the curriculum to include material to prepare students in competencies required for Responsibilities V and VI.
The Colorado Tobacco‐Free Schools and Communities Project
Authors: Peck Diane DiGiacomo , Acott Connie , Richard Patricia , Hill Susan , Schuster Cathy
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article defends the appropriateness of tobacco‐free school policies as an effective tool toward ensuring young people develop into healthy and intellectually strong adults, and demonstrates how such a policy can be introduced into a school district. Health education efforts to eliminate tobacco use are widely considered more effective when carried out in concert with school policies and adult role models offering the consistent message that tobacco use is unhealthy and unacceptable. Studies indicate students who attend schools with strict smoking policies are less likely to begin smoking than students who attend schools without such policies. Through research, support, and guidance, the Colorado Tobacco‐Free Schools and Communities Project successfully has assisted almost half the 176 school districts in Colorado to adopt such policies.