bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Education about Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs—A Challenge to Our Schools
Authors: Eiseman Seymour
Published: May 2005

The author describes the most serious problem of drug abuse in the nation's schools. He attempts to describe the role of the school and its responsibility as a preventive agent or deterrent to youthful drug abuse. The epidemic proportions of drug abuse in our schools could be effectively diminished with the necessary ingredients for successful results. These ingredients should include such items as thought, inquiry, analysis, evaluation and decision-making.

The writer further describes how health education classes with realistic and dynamic programs of instruction can also serve as effective deterrents to youthful drug abuse. He further describes a method in which the other disciplines that make up the instructional program of a school can reinforce the health and drug education program, thus building up a total educational thrust within the existing curriculum framework.
Gender and Racial Correlates of Personal Control among Emotionally Disturbed Older Adults
Authors: Nemeroff Robin , Midlarsky Elizabeth
Published: May 2005

Black and white community-dwelling women and men over sixty-five years of age, all of whom had been referred for psychotherapy, were interviewed to determine their perceived control (internal vs. external) over the causes and solutions to their problems. Personal control orientations were found to vary both by race and by gender. Men perceived themselves as having more control over causes than did women, but women perceived themselves as having more control over solutions than did men. Blacks perceived themselves as more responsible both for causes and solutions than did whites. Of the four groups studied, white females saw themselves as having the least control over the causes of their problems, but those perceiving higher levels of control over causes were most depressed. White males saw themselves as having the least control over solutions, but those with higher levels of perceived control had lower levels of depressive symptomatology.
Change in Significant other Relationships and Life Satisfaction in the Aged
Authors: Walsh James A. , Kiracofe Norman M.
Published: May 2005

Changes in the choice of significant others from pre- to postinstitutionalization were examined in relation to life satisfaction in a population of well-aged retirement home residents. A total of fifty-nine residents, both male and female, ranging in age from 69 to 101 were placed in three groups based on length of residence (Group 1 — up to 2 years, Group 2 − 3 to 8 years and Group 3 − 9 to 17 years), and asked to indicate whether a relative, or friend was most important to them at both pre- and postinstitutionalization. Reported preferences were examined in relation to subject scores on the Life Satisfaction Index — A (LSI-A). Significant changes in reported preferences, from pre- to postinstitutionalization were found only in Group 3, with the shift being away from relatives. LSI-A score differences between the groups were significant, only in the Group 1 vs 3 comparison. Analysis of LSI-A scores for residents who changed vs those who did not change pre- to postpreferences produced significant differences within the three groups with change individuals achieving higher scores in Groups 2 and 3. It was concluded that a shift in significant relationships away from the family may be an important factor in successful adjustment to a retirement home.
Life-History Interviews of Aging Gay Men
Authors: Kimmel Douglas C.
Published: May 2005

Homosexual men and women have seldom been studied by gerontologists and almost nothing is known about the lifestyles, pattern of development through the adult years, and the effect of homosexuality on aging. Fourteen gay men, ranging in age from fifty-five to eighty-one, were interviewed about their life history and experiences of aging as gay men. Three of the respondents had long-term relationships that lasted up to forty years; two had experienced the death of a lover and had begun a new long-term relationship; four had been married to women and two had children (one unmarried man adopted a son and is now a grandfather). The wide diversity of their patterns of aging, the presence of positive aspects of gay aging, and the high life satisfaction of many of the respondents contradict the stereotype of the lonely, isolated old gay man.
Individual Differences in Reminiscence among Older Adults: Predictors of Frequency and Pleasantness Ratings of Reminiscence Activity
Authors: Fry P. S.
Published: May 2005

Although reminiscence has been recognized as an adaptive coping mechanism and its beneficial value is stressed in later life transitions, few studies have examined the frequency of self-reported reminiscence in relation to the personality traits, psychological well-being, purpose in life, and background characteristics of elderly individuals. Nor has there been any previous attempt to study the independent contributions of these factors as predictors of the frequency of reminiscence activity or the pleasantness ratings of the reminiscence activity. A sample of seventy individuals between the ages of sixty-seven and eighty-two years was selected from community settings, and an equivalent age sample of seventy individuals was selected from nursing home settings. A structured interview procedure and questionnaire assessed the frequency of reminiscence activity and ratings of pleasantness associated with it. The independent contributions of various personality measures, psychological well-being measures, and meaning of life measures as predictors of the frequency and pleasantness of reminiscence activity were analyzed via multiple regression analyses. The results showed that despite wide variability in the use of reminiscence, certain specific factors of personality, psychological well-being, will to meaning, and negative life events are strong predictors of the frequency and pleasantness of reminiscence activity. These results are discussed in terms of mental health implications for the identification of individuals with greatest potential for engaging frequently in reminiscence as a therapeutic tool and finding it a pleasant pursuit.
Older Adults' Multiple Stereotypes of Young Adults
Authors: Matheson Deborah H. , Collins Caroline L. , Kuehne Valerie S.
Published: May 2005

Although the nature of younger adults' attitudes toward older adults has been researched extensively, there are long-neglected questions regarding older adults' views of young adults. In the first phase of this three phase study, community dwelling seniors generated traits they believed characterized young people. In the second phase, a subsample of the original participants sorted the traits into groups that could be found in one and the same young person. Fifteen stereotypes appeared when these results were submitted to hierarchical cluster analysis. In the final phase, a subsample of the original older adult participants rated how typical each of the stereotypes was of younger people. As well, each of the stereotypes were rated using an abbreviated version of Kogan and Wallach's (1961) semantic differential scale. Results indicate that the stereotypes older people hold of younger people are generally more positive than negative. Further, the positive stereotypes are viewed as more typical of younger adults than are the negative stereotypes.
Toward a Theory of Minority Student Participation in Predominantly White Colleges and Universities
Authors: González Kenneth P.
Published: May 2005

This article describes the construction of an alternative framework for minority, specifically Chicano, student participation in predominantly White colleges and universities. The framework described is based on a two-year study investigating the experiences and actions of first-generation college students who identify themselves as Chicano. Through interpretation of interviews, observations, and documents, an in-depth understanding of the nature of their experiences and actions on a predominantly White university in the Southwest United States was gained. The culmination of this understanding was captured in the construction of a grounded (Glaser & Strauss, 1967), conceptual framework. Development of the framework occurred in three stages: first the role of the students as cultural workers was posited, highlighting the ways in which the students took active roles in fighting their marginalization; the next stage focused on the ways in which Chicano culture provided “cultural nourishment” for the students in their role as cultural workers; and finally, the framework suggests that students seek to achieve synthesis between their own culture and the university culture in such a way that it creates cultural transformation and liberation.
Cultural Changes and the Drug Scene
Authors: Gregory Robert J.
Published: May 2005

An anthropological perspective on the American society and the contemporary drug scene, reveals shifts in value orientation, in social structure, and in activity. In this view, the drug scene appears to be in the vanguard of social change.
The Adjustment of the Older Woman: Effects of Chronic Ill Health and Attitudes toward Retirement
Authors: Levy Sandra M.
Published: May 2005

While the general portrayal of today's aging woman in the literature is a rather bleak one, the few studies that have been concerned with her adjustment to retirement have revealed discrepant findings. The present study investigated affect and temporal experience as indicators of adjustment through structured interviews with fifty-two female retirees. Data were analyzed by a 2 × 2 × 2 ANOVA comparing groups in terms of Health, Willingness to Retire, and Time Since Retirement. In general, it was found that both healthy and ill females who had not initially wanted to retire, did not adjust over time to the retirement state. Even above the median time since retirement, these women experienced negative affect and a constricted and discontinuous sense of time passage. Second, and in contrast with the findings of an earlier study with male retirees, chronically ill females were not uniform in terms of maladjustment. A significant portion of ill female interviewees were seemingly able to surmount the effects of bodily disease and adjust to the requirements of role transition in an adaptive manner. Differential needs of the aging male and female in this cohort were emphasized, and implications for intervention were drawn.
The 4% Fallacy: R. I. P.
Authors: Kastenbaum Robert
Published: May 2005

It is perhaps time for the 4% fallacy to rest in peace. Those who are alert to logical and methodological issues have probably registered the message clearly enough in the years since the first article appeared [1] and those who prefer fallacy have by now well demonstrated their invincibility. The diligent labors of McConnel [2, this issue], however, invite a brief and final response.
An Inquiry into the Positive Personal and Social Effects of Old Age Stereotypes among the Elderly
Authors: Kearl Michael C.
Published: May 2005

Much has been written or inferred about the detrimental consequences of old age stereotypes for elderly individuals. This paper presents and tests an alternative perspective called relative advantage. As the reciprocal counterpart of relative deprivation theory, this perspective claims that such stereotypes may be psychologically and sociologically functional for the old to believe. Using the results of the 1975 Louis Harris-NCOA “The Myth and Reality of Aging in America” survey, two hypotheses were tested: 1) those who feel other older individuals are worse off than themselves will have higher life satisfaction scores than those perceiving others to be as well or better off; 2) these imputations of others' difficulties correlate with one's likelihood to support and join coalitions on behalf of the old and to approve government taxing of all age groups to support them. The evidence presented raises some dysfunctional implications of debunking aging myths.
Elder Maltreatment Items, Subgroups, and Types: Policy and Practice Implications
Authors: Hall Philip A.
Published: May 2005

An examination of 288 validated instances of elder maltreatment suggests that these phenomena pose questions as diverse as those faced in identifying child and spouse maltreatment. A partial typology is offered to guide further investigations. Implications for policy and practice suggest a cautious approach to value-laden issues while recognizing the need for intervention.
Hard Drug Usage: The Modern Insanity
Authors: Puretz Donald H.
Published: May 2005

The recent entry of large numbers of non-slum dwellers, especially college youth, into the drug culture has engendered much interest in the subject. Estimates suggest that over one-fourth of college students may be smoking marijuana regularly, with substantial numbers “tripping” on LSD, getting high on amphetamines, and a not insignificant—and growing—number using heroin. Unfortunately, perhaps as an inevitable result of allowing law-enforcement personnel to pose as “experts” in the field, a substantial body of incomplete knowledge and utter mythologies has grown up surrounding drugs.

Fortunately, acceptance of the expertise of these law enforcement personnel—often scientifically unqualified, usually possessing vested interests (even if only subconsciously)—is giving way to legitimate medical and scientific research. Hopefully these presumably objective researchers will enable society to undertake logical programs of treatment and prophylaxis based upon objective evidence.
Social Skills, Competence, and Drug Refusal Efficacy as Predictors of Adolescent Alcohol Use
Authors: Scheier Lawrence M. , Botvin Gilbert J. , Diaz Tracy , Griffin Kenneth W.
Published: May 2005

Numerous alcohol and drug abuse prevention trials have included social resistance training as a strategy for reducing early-stage adolescent alcohol use. Evaluations of these trials has shown them to be moderately effective, although the precise impact of the resistance training in comparison to other programmatic features has not been clearly identified. The current study examined the extent to which assertiveness and related social skills, personal competence (perceived cognitive mastery), and refusal efficacy predict alcohol involvement. Males were at greater risk for poor refusal skills and reported higher alcohol involvement. Cross-sectionally, youth characterized by poor social skill development reported lower refusal efficacy, lower grades, poor competence, and more alcohol use. Poor refusal efficacy was associated with more risk-taking, lower grades, less competence, and more alcohol use. Longitudinally, both poor refusal skills and risk-taking were associated with higher alcohol use. High personal competence was associated with lower alcohol use in both the eighth and tenth grades, but had no long-term effects on alcohol use. Findings highlight the close interplay between perceived competence and refusal skill efficacy, both of which should be included as essential components of school-based prevention strategies.
Patronizing the Old: How Do Younger and Older Adults Respond to Baby Talk in the Nursing Home?
Authors: Ryan Ellen Bouchard , Hamilton Janet M. , See Sheree Kwong
Published: May 2005

To test the implications of Communication Accommodation Theory for intergenerational talk to dependent older persons, eighty young adults and seventy-one older adults evaluated speakers in a brief taped conversation. Specifically, the study was conducted to determine whether the apparent nurturant quality of the baby talk tone of voice and parental style would compensate for the lack of respect associated with this type of patronizing talk to elders. The talk was either secondary baby talk or a neutral variant addressed to an elderly resident in a nursing home by either a nurse or a volunteer. The caregivers who used baby talk were rated as significantly less respectful and competent than their peers in the neutral condition, but no differences were observed for nurturance of the caregiver. The recipients of baby talk were perceived to be less satisfied with the interaction. These findings were true for both caregiver roles and both respondent age groups.
Social Well-Being of Institutionalized Elderly Persons
Authors: Reed Wornie L. , Washington Betty B.
Published: May 2005

This article describes the development of a scale, the Social Well-Being Scale, to measure the extent to which institutionalized older persons perceive their social needs as being met. For persons over sixty-five years of age, the scale score is not affected by age or sex, but it does distinguish them by race, health, and type of living arrangement. Further, the Social Well-Being Scale predicts the level of psychological well-being.
To Teach or Not to Teach? Comparing the Use of Computer-Based Simulations in Deductive versus Inductive Approaches to Learning with Adults in Science
Authors: Rieber Lloyd P. , Parmley M. Wayne
Published: May 2005

Two alternative learning strategies, deductive and inductive, were compared as adults learned about the laws of motion using combinations of computer-based tutorials and simulations. Two levels of Tutorial (Yes, No) were crossed with three levels of Simulation (Structured, Unstructured, None). Deductive learning was defined as the tutorial followed by either the structured or unstructured simulation as practice. Inductive learning was defined as either the structured or unstructured simulation given to the subjects without the tutorial. The No Tutorial/No Simulation condition acted as a posttest-only control group. Results indicated that subjects learned as much inductively from the structured simulation as other subjects learned deductively from the tutorial, but not so from the unstructured simulation. Subjects were also very accurate in their ability to monitor their own comprehension in each of the respective instructional conditions. However, response confidence during the posttest was lower for the subjects who were given the simulations as compared to those who were given the tutorial.
Non-Speech Sound in Human-Computer Interaction: A Review and Design Guidelines
Authors: Hereford James , Winn William
Published: May 2005

Recent developments in computer technology make it possible to use sound more extensively in the computer interface than has hitherto been possible. This article describes research on uses of computer sound and suggests how sound might be used effectively by instructional and interface designers. After a review of some general principles of interface design and of basic research into auditory perception, the article examines two uses of sound: Earcons, whose purpose is to inform the user about the state of the system itself, and sonitization, whose purpose is to represent data generated by computer programs as sound. Both symbolic and iconic sounds are examined. The role of sound in virtual environments is also discussed with particular attention to its use in aircraft. Design guidelines are listed, and conclusions about needed research are offered.
The Retention/Intervention Study of Native American Undergraduates at the University of New Mexico
Authors: Belgarde Mary Jiron , Loré Richard K.
Published: May 2005

Student service programs act as key resources to help students persist in school until graduation. However, some critics question whether service programs aimed at specific ethnic populations contribute sufficiently toward their persistence. Tinto (1975) argues that the stronger one is integrated into the institution, the more likely he/she will graduate from college. Thus, Native students' use of Native and non-Native student service programs is likely to effect the strength of their integration. The article presents study findings to explain how Native undergraduates used mainstream and Native programs to support their persistence to graduation at the University of New Mexico. It reports the students' levels of involvement, satisfaction of the services received, and why some students didn't use them. It also includes stop-out information and reasons for stopping out. Finally, the authors discuss how the findings and conclusions may be viewed in light of Native philosophy and views on education.
Cognitive Deficit and the Aging Brain: A Behavioral Analysis
Authors: Kinsbourne Marcel
Published: May 2005

Cross-sectional comparisons were performed between young and old subject groups matched for socioeconomic status (SES) and vocabulary score on Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, an incomplete figure recognition test (IFR), and a measure of auditory letter span (ALS). The elderly group's performance was relatively inferior on all three measures, but least so on the ALS, for which they were able to use their overlearned knowledge of English spelling patterns. Deficit on the unfamiliar “right-hemispheric” IFR was fully accounted for by deficit on Matrices. This loss on a test of cerebrally localizable process (IFR) and on a non-localizable test presumably indicative of diffuse neuronal depletion (Matrices) were comparable in extent, suggesting that basically homogeneous cerebral atrophy in aging equally affects focally and diffusely organized cerebral processes. Where previously acquired “structure” can be invoked (ALS), test performance is relatively preserved.
Life Satisfaction among Black Urban Elderly
Authors: Jackson James S. , Bacon John D. , Peterson John
Published: May 2005

Previous research in white aged populations often has been derived from disengagement, activity, or personality theories. The relevance, however, of any of these conceptual frameworks to black aged is problematic because of their development in white samples and the lack of empirical data documenting their applicability to non-whites. The lack of systematic empirical research on black aged, and particularly, on the determinants of life satisfaction, provided the major impetus for the present study. Interview schedules were individually administered to 102 non-institutionalized retired men and women residing in a large urban area. A multiple regression analysis revealed a number of factors related to life satisfaction. The results are supportive of previous studies in white samples but are sufficiently distinct to raise questions regarding the applicability of these prior findings to black aged.
Alcohol and Metropolitan Black Teenagers
Authors: Gay John E.
Published: May 2005

Many studies have dealt with the health variables of drinking among teenagers, but few have looked at Black adolescents. Data from a sample of 728 males and females aged eleven to sixteen indicated that drinkers were more likely to report health problems. The correlation between drinking and poor health was most noted among young males and older females. Drinkers reported more sleep disturbances. Tobacco use was the most positive predictor of drinking among males and pregnancy for females.
The Structure of the Life Satisfaction Index a in Elderly Israeli Adults
Authors: Shmotkin Dov
Published: May 2005

Neugaraten et al.'s Life Satisfaction Index A (LSIA) is a widely used instrument for measuring subjective well-being among elderly adults, and the generalizability of its structure in different cultural contexts should be established [1]. The present study investigated the structure of the LSIA in older Israeli adults by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Exploratory factor analyses in Sample 1 ( N = 267) yielded three factors of Zest, Mood Tone, and Congruence. Unlike previous studies in the United States, Zest emerged in alternate forms, labeled Zest-Via-Time and Zest-Via-Interest. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted in Sample 1 and Sample 2 ( N = 154) according to Liang's [2] model specifications, assuming a second-order factor. When previously suggested factorial compositions were tested, Liang's [2] and Hoyt and Creech's [3] three-factor models fit the data, while Adams' [4] model did not. Hoyt and Creech's [3] four-factor model provided no improvement on the two, three-factor models. When the present factorial compositions were tested, a three-factor model with Zest-Via-Interest best fit Sample 1, while an alternate three-factor model with Zest-Via-Time best fit Sample 2. A four-factor model with both forms of Zest provided no improvement on the best fitting three-factor models. The results support the generalizability of a three-factor structure with a second-order factor but suggest two different variations of Zest. Cross-cultural as well as other implications concerning subjective well-being in elderly adults are discussed.
Personal Attributes and Computer Writing Quality
Authors: Barker Randolph T. , Pearce C. Glenn
Published: May 2005

This article reports the results of a study testing whether any of seventeen personal attributes related to the quality of documents university undergraduates wrote by hand and on the computer. Chi-square analysis showed significant differences for age, class, and word processing and keyboarding experience. The researchers concluded that some attributes do relate to computer writing quality and suggest further study to benefit computer writers and computer writing curriculum and instruction.
Assessment of the Perceived Impact of Taxation upon Smoking Behavior—Implications for Health Education
Authors: Joyce Anna Mae , O'Rourke Thomas W. , O'Rourke Diane M.
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this study was to assess the perceived impact of increased taxation upon smoking behavior. Results indicated that although subjects were equally divided in their favoring a tax increase on cigarettes, non-smokers and ex-smokers were much more in favor of a tax increase than were smokers. However, no difference was noted between the amount of cigarette consumption and the favoring of a tax increase. Both regular and occasional smokers were against it. A majority of smokers indicated they would stop smoking or cut-down if a $.50 or $1.00 tax were initiated. Also, the higher the tax the greater the perceived effect. It appears that a tax increase on cigarettes would act primarily to deter the continuation of smoking behavior, and encourage a reduction of consumption for others. It would have a significant but lesser effect upon initiation of smoking behavior.
Inappropriate Accommodation in Communication to Elders: Inferences about Nonverbal Correlates
Authors: Ryan Ellen Bouchard , Maclean Maryanne , Orange J. B.
Published: May 2005

According to Communication Accommodation Theory, overaccommodation in intergenerational communication with elders is frequently based on stereotyped expectations of frailty and dependence. This study examined the role of nonverbal behaviors in such overaccommodation. Adult volunteers ( N = 120; mean age = 29 years) read either a patronizing or neutral version of one of three conversations between a nursing home resident and a nurse. As in our earlier study, the nurse's use of the patronizing conversational style was rated as less respectful, less nurturant, and more frustrating for the resident than the neutral style. The main analyses indicated that negative nonverbal behaviors were rated as significantly more likely to occur with the patronizing style while positive nonverbal behaviors were rated as significantly less likely. The negative evaluative impact of patronizing style was especially apparent for instrumental task situations with high compliance demands. The effects for conversational style were essentially replicated for a smaller sample (N = 50) of formal care providers.
Subjective Well-Being among the Rural Elderly Population
Authors: Meddin Jay , Vaux Alan
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between psychosocial factors and subjective well-being among rural elderly persons. A broad range of psychosocial factors (such as mastery, social support, and perceived health) and measures of well-being (such as positive and negative affect and life satisfaction) were employed in bivariate correlation, canonical correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The findings show significant relationships between subjective well-being measures and psychosocial factors that are concomitant with other populations, both elderly and general.
Learning about Technology in a Non-Instructional Environment
Authors: Schustack Miriam W. , Strauss Rachelle , Worden Patricia E.
Published: May 2005

Our after-school recreational activity system (called “The Fifth Dimension”) has the goal of encouraging multiple literacies in school-aged children, including computer literacy. In keeping with its recreational, non-instructional flavor, there is no formal computer curriculum, despite the prevalence of computer use. The current research addresses the effects of exposure to this environment on children's computer knowledge, hypothesizing that participants' greater familiarity with the meanings and relationships among technical terms would lead to improved performance on a memory task. Memory for words that were neutral with respect to the Fifth Dimension was compared to memory for words that were specific to our computer tools and words associated with other aspects of the Fifth Dimension. Fifth Dimension novices were compared to children who had visited at least eleven times. Experts were biased toward recognizing both types of relevant words over neutral words, while novices showed the opposite pattern. Recall data showed similar effects. This specific improvement in computer knowledge as a consequence of participation is consistent with several other measures of how computer expertise is influenced by Fifth Dimension experience.
Rethinking Delaware Archaeology: A Beginning
Authors: Clark Charles C. , Custer Jay F.
Published: May 2005

A pit feature containing human remains was originally interpreted as a trash pit based on its shape, the presence of ceramic sherds, flakes, and fire-cracked rocks, and the absence of items traditionally viewed as “grave goods.” However, a cooperative reconsideration of the feature, incorporating the insights of a representative of the Nanticoke Indian Tribe, developed a new interpretation. Ethnohistoric data clearly indicate that local Indian people would not be likely to bury a body in a trash pit. Therefore, the presence of human remains signified a burial and artifacts usually viewed as “trash” could still have symbolic and ritual significance. Upon careful study, many of the feature's artifacts showed attributes which seem to distinguish them from superficially similar items found in non-grave settings. Data gathered from ethnohistoric sources, ethnographies, and linguistic analysis fit together to create a consistent cultural context for the artifacts' ritual and symbolic meaning.
Evaluation of a Multimedia Drug Education Program
Authors: Kline James A.
Published: May 2005

A two-week multimedia drug education program was evaluated by administering questionnaires to 650 junior high school students. Reported drug use was light, led by tobacco and alcohol. Questionnaire responses indicated that most students responded well to the program. Twenty five per cent of professed users claimed to have stopped using, and 50% of would-be users reported that they decided not to try drugs following the program.
Substance Abuse and Teacher Stress
Authors: Fimian Michael J. , Zacherman Joseph , McHardy Roberta J.
Published: May 2005

On-the-job stress was examined in relationship with the strength of need to use and the frequency of use of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (P) drugs and alcohol (A), across five teacher samples ( N = 1788). The Total Strength and Total Frequency Scores of the Teacher Stress Inventory (TSI) were used to assess stress levels. It was determined that: 1) high stress frequencies were significantly related to the frequent use of OTC, P, and A substances, 2) high stress strengths were significantly related to perceptions of the strong need to use such substances; 3) 6 percent to 11 percent of the teachers reported a great-to-major need to use chemical substances to manage stress, while 3 percent to 11 percent reported actually making use of these on a near-daily or daily basis; 4) the Total Stress Frequency can be used to predict the frequency of substance use; and 5) both the Total Frequency and Total Strength measures can be used to predict the degree of need to use stress-buffering substances.
The Situational Relationship between Age and the Fear of Crime
Authors: Jeffords Charles R.
Published: May 2005

It is commonly accepted that there is a positive relationship between age and the fear of crime, although there is some indication that this may not hold under all conditions. Most studies concerning fear of crime have been based upon questions involving fear of walking alone within one's neighborhood. This study examined fear of crime both in the relative danger of walking in the neighborhood and in the safety of one's home. Age was found to be positively associated with fear of crime in the former situation, but slightly negatively associated in the latter. It was suggested that the aged may only be more fearful of crime in particularly dangerous situations, and that there is a need for fear of crime measures with greater content validity.
The Silent Pusher
Authors: Frederick Charles L. , Guldbrandsen Frank
Published: May 2005

Most concern for drug abuse among drug educators focuses on illicit, youth oriented chemicals such as marijuana and hallucinogens. Even though this is so, we know that a major source of drug abuse stems directly from the prescription pads of medical doctors. Even perfectly justifiable prescriptions for physical and psychical maladies are filled and then used for purposes that damage and destroy human potential. An effort needs to be made in drug education aimed at physicians, working toward dealing with the problem of abuse of over the counter, licit drugs.
Student Study Choices in the Principles of Economics: A Case Study of Computer Usage
Authors: Grimes Paul W. , Sanderson Patricia L. , Ching Geok H.
Published: May 2005

Principles of Economics students at Mississippi State University were provided the opportunity to use computer assisted instruction (CAI) as a supplemental study activity. Students were free to choose the extent of their computer work. Throughout the course, weekly surveys were conducted to monitor the time each student spent with their textbook, computerized tutorials, workbook, class notes, and study groups. The surveys indicated that only a minority of the students actively pursued CAI. Probit and OLS models were estimated to identify the factors which determined the probability of computer use and the mean weekly time spent in CAI. The results indicated that black students spent significantly less time engaged in CAI but older students spent more time with the computer. Students with greater physical access to computers and students who had taken a formal course in computer operations spent more time each week in CAI. Further, students who highly rated the importance of CAI to their learning were more likely to be computer users and spend more time on task. The impact of CAI on student performance was estimated within the context of a “treatment effects” model which controlled for the self-selection of students into two categories of computer users. The results indicated that CAI did significantly improve end-of-course test performance, holding all else constant. Given the negligible use of CAI, the authors conclude that students failed to perceive the expected return to computer time or were willing to bear the opportunity cost of pursuing other study activities.
Prognostic Factors of Effectiveness of a Support Program for Caregivers of Dementia Patients
Authors: Vernooij-Dassen M. , Lamers C. , Bor J. , Felling A. , Grol R.
Published: May 2005

In a randomized controlled study, positive effects were found of a support program for caregivers of dementia patients. The aim of this study is to identify in a secondary analysis the prognostic factors of success of the support program by comparing characteristics of patients and primary caregivers for whom the support program was effective with those for whom the program was not effective ( n = 49 pairs of patients and caregivers). The theoretically based individualized support program which is presented in this article, was most effective with regard to primary caregivers' sense of competence for females sharing a household with the dementia patient. The program was most effective in reducing the number of patient admissions when patients did not receive support from a district nurse and the primary caregivers experienced less emotional support from the informal network. A proactive approach by offering this flexible support before caregivers ask for support may prolong the stage in which they feel able to care for patients at home. Offering this support to females, who usually are supposed to care for the patient without assistance, may be both effective and efficient.
Psychological Status of Student Drug Users
Authors: Galli Nicholas , Stone Donald B.
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this study was to determine how a child's self-concept influences their drug attitudes and behaviors. In addition to identifying specific drug practices, students responded to four subscales of the California Test of Personality. “Anti-Social Tendencies” and “Family Relations” correlated significantly and negatively with the use of almost all substances and positively with drug attitude. “Feeling of Belongong” was related negatively to the use of the more dangerous drugs.
Can U.S. Developed CAI Work Effectively in a Developing Country?
Authors: Royer James M. , Greene Barbara A. , Anzalone Stephen J.
Published: May 2005

The study examined the impact of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) developed in the United States on the reading and math performance of students enrolled in the Grenada school system. Over a three year period students in standards one through five substituted CAI instruction in reading and math for part of their conventional instruction. These students were compared to students from three control schools thought to be comparable to the CAI school, and to a school in an urban area that had the reputation of being one of the better schools in the country. The results of reading tests indicated that an initial negative impact of CAI during the first two years of the study turned into a positive impact during the third year. The impact of CAI instruction in mathematics was uniformly positive over the three years of the project. The study also produced evidence that lower ability students may have benefited more from CAI instruction than higher ability students.
Factors in Marijuana Cessation among High-Risk Youth
Authors: Weiner Michelle D. , Sussman Steve , McCuller William J. , Lichtman Kara
Published: May 2005

The rise in marijuana use among high school students has generated considerable concern. The apparent failure of current marijuana control efforts may be due in part to ignorance about why students use marijuana and what influences them to consider quitting. This article utilized both open-ended and multiple-choice surveys as well as health educator-led focus groups to assess issues related to marijuana use and cessation among a population of high-risk youth. A total of 842 students participated, assessed as two separate samples from eleven continuation high schools in southern California. Approximately 70 percent of the students are current marijuana users. Interpreting results across both samples, it is apparent that interest in quitting marijuana use among continuation high school students is high. Over half of the marijuana users surveyed have tried to quit and failed. Still, several social images associated with marijuana smokers are positive and subjects express a lack of confidence in the efficacy of marijuana cessation clinic programs. Subjects believe that either self-help or punitive methods are the most effective types of marijuana cessation activities. A reportedly high rate of failed quit attempts suggests that effective marijuana cessation programs are needed in this population. Future programs must address both reasons users resist change, including use of marijuana as a stress reliever, and the particular motivations that subjects report regarding why they desire to quit using marijuana, including legal, vocational, and health consequences.
The Meaning of Grandparents as Viewed by Adolescent Grandchildren: An Empirical Study in Belgium
Authors: Van Ranst Nancy , Verschueren Karine , Marcoen Alfons
Published: May 2005

Why do adolescents value their grandparents? This was the leading question of an investigation among 563 adolescents and young adults in Flanders (Belgium). The Grandparent Meaning Scale which probes eleven a priori dimensions of meaning, was completed by 147 early adolescents ( M = 12.5 years), 175 middle adolescents ( M = 15.7 years), and 241 late adolescents ( M = 18.9 years). Results show that adolescents generally find their grandparents important and feel close to them. Grandparents are valued primarily because they provide affection, reassurance of worth, and reliable alliance. Relational-affective and caregiving meanings were assigned more often to grandmothers whereas advising, teaching, and narrative roles were ascribed more frequently to grandfathers. Maternal grandparents were generally perceived as more important and closer than paternal grandparents. Early adolescents assigned more importance and meaning to their grandparents than middle and late adolescents. There were no differences between grandsons and granddaughters.
Intergenerational Exchanges and Perceptions of Support within “Boomerang Kid” Family Environments
Authors: Veevers Jean E. , Mitchell Barbara A.
Published: May 2005

Drawing on the social exchange perspective, we examine: 1) the extent to which adult children who have returned to the parental home (“boomerang kids”) exchange several types of instrumental and affective support with their parents, and 2) whether there is symmetry or incongruence in perceptions of support among these family dyads. The data used for this study are drawn from interviews with one child and one parent from 218 families in which the child has recently returned home. Findings indicate that children receive more frequent instrumental and emotional (affective) support than parents receive, and that parents perceive that they receive considerably more emotional support than boomerang children acknowledge donating. Implications for family relationships over the life course and household living arrangements are considered.
The Turned on Generation: Where Will They Turn to?
Authors: Cowan Ronald , Roth Rodney
Published: May 2005

The author presents a series of tables compiled from a drug abuse questionnaire. The data presented are summarized in a fashion that will enable one to compare the drug using population with the non-drug using population in regard to their inner actions with several societal institutions. It is most interesting to note the limited effect our schools have on the drug user and his feelings regarding his family relationships. Some interesting questions are quite evident and must be answered.
The Influences of Physical Activity on Patterns of Sleep Behavior of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Namazi Kevan H. , Zadorozny Carol A. , Gwinnup Paulletta B.
Published: May 2005

Literature indicates that patients with Alzheimer's disease often experience nocturnal confusions and difficulties. The list of interventions for sleep disorder is long and often convincingly ineffective. A light exercise program was set up for eleven patients who exercised each day for forty minutes. The sleeping behavior of these patients and another group of eleven who did not participate in the exercise program were documented. The results, contrary to genera beliefs, indicate that the most prevalent sleep behavior for both groups in the pre and post conditions was “sleeping soundly.” Findings also alluded to the importance of exercise for this cohort in reducing “restless” behavior. Those who participated in the exercise program manifested 40 percent less “restless” behavior, while those in the non-exercise group had an increase of 3 percent.
Adolescents' Perceptions of Cannabis Use by Their Peers: Does it Have Anything to Do with Behavior?
Authors: Sheppard Margaret A.
Published: May 2005

Young people perceive there are many more people using cannabis than any surveys can document. As part of an education program, students were exposed to survey data to influence their perceptions and in turn to affect their use and intentions to use cannabis in the future. This large study showed that perception has no relationship to use or intentions to use, and that changing perceptions of use is very difficult.
Drugs in the High School
Authors: Lerner Steven E. , Linder Ronald L. , Drolet Judy C.
Published: May 2005

An upward trend of psychoactive drug use within the lower grade levels was observed among 616 high school students. Although different patterns of drug use exist between parochial and public high school sophomores, by their junior year the two groups were similar. Over half of the public high school students claimed they take drugs either “for kicks” or “for curiosity”.
Grandma's Hands: Parental Perceptions of the Importance of Grandparents as Secondary Caregivers in Families of Children with Disabilities
Authors: Green Sara E.
Published: May 2005

This study examines parental perceptions of the importance of grandparents as providers of routine care to children with disabilities and the impact of such assistance on parental well-being. Data are drawn from a survey and follow-up interactive interviews. Findings of the survey indicate that: 1) grandparents are a common source of weekly assistance—significantly more common than other relatives or friends and neighbors; 2) where grandparents participate, the number of other sources of support is also higher; and 3) help from grandparents has a positive, while the number of other sources of help has a negative, relationship to parental ability to maintain a positive emotional outlook and to avoid physical exhaustion. Findings of the interactive interviews suggest that: 1) grandparent participation can promote pride and “normalized attitudes” by helping grandparents to get to know the child with a disability on an intimate basis; 2) when grandparents do not participate, parents may feel the need to manage the information given to and the emotional responses experienced by grandparents who have not had a chance to get know and love the child through frequent, direct contact; and 3) parents are very concerned that if grandparents themselves begin to need help due to increased age and disability, they will not ask for it because of fear that parents are already overburdened by the unusual demands of their parenting roles.
A Factor Analysis of a Drug Questionnaire
Authors: Pascale Pietro J.
Published: May 2005

The purpose of this study was to identify the factorial composition of 55 characteristics of 5,981 subjects. These characteristics were assessed by a self-report inventory containing 55 items pertaining to drug use and alleged related areas of drug use. The significance of using the factor analysis technique is primarily to improve the interpretability of the instrument through a procedure of reducing the 55 interdependent characteristics (items) to a more manageable and meaningful number.
Depot—Drug Education Program for Oregon Teachers
Authors: Schlaadt Richard G.
Published: May 2005

Depot was designed to (1) provide teachers with a general understanding of the drug scene, (2) implement the new state drug education guide, (3) distribute and implement drug resources, and (4) stimulate local school drug education programs. Emphasis was also placed on “What can communities do?”; “What can teachers do?”; and “What can administrators do?” to help alleviate the drug problem.