bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
School‐based, Short‐term Group Treatment for Behaviorally Disturbed Young Adolescent Males: A Pilot Intervention
Authors: Rauch Steven P. , Brack Catherine J. , Orr Donald P.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Behaviorally maladjusted students represent a serious problem for schools. A short‐term group counseling program was initiated as an alternative to out‐of‐school suspensions for male students in a middle school (grades six‐eight). Thirteen adolescents were identified for group treatment. All received a standard psychiatric interview, and standard measures of self‐concept, anxiety, cognitive complexity, and sexual maturity. Eleven students referred to the program had conduct disorders supported by Devereux Behavior profiles. Compared to 48 males of similar age (m = 12.5 years) without behavior problems, no significant differences were noted in self‐concept or anxiety. Boys with behavior problems were less cognitively mature (p = .02) and were significantly (p = .001) more advanced in Tanner sexual maturity rating than the comparison group. A behavior management system using group rewards and consequences for individual behavior was utilized. Disciplinary problems decreased in the classroom during treatment but no long‐term changes were noted following cessation of treatment. The data raises the question whether early sexual maturation modifies an adolescent's risk for psychological problems. Short‐term group treatment may be effective in improving classroom behavior of behaviorally disturbed adolescent males.
A Checklist for Evaluating Health Information
Authors: McKenzie James F.
Published: October 2009

Lose ten pounds in one week. Get thinner thighs in thirty days. Become physically fit in two weeks. Stop smoking in five days. Control your stress in three easy steps.
Aging Education in Schools
Authors: McGuire Sandra L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Aging is a natural and lifelong process that begins at the moment of conception. If Americans are to adapt successfully to their own and others aging, they need to be educated to do so. Schools are the logical place for aging education to begin. Aging education has the potential for an exciting and rewarding future as it can increase the quality of life not only for future elderly, but for today's elderly as well. Education professionals need to be aware of the need for aging education and to advocate its integration into school curricula. In this article, the author presents an overview of aging education and identifies resources to help implement aging education in schools.
Health Education and Sensitivity to Cultural, Religious, and Ethnic Beliefs
Authors: Galli Nicholas , Greenberg Jerrold S. , Tobin Frances
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Health education at times can conflict with the cultural, religious, and ethnic backgrounds of students. This article examines the dilemma by using the religious teachings of Judaism to illustrate conflicts that can arise. Other cultures, religions, and ethnic origins are discussed, and some dilemmas health educators face with these groups are described. Suggestions for health educators are offered to prevent health instruction from leading to conflict between home and school concerning cultural, religious, and ethnic values.
The Ultimate Rejection: Helping the Survivors of Teen Suicide Victims
Authors: Ojanlatva Ansa , Hammer Angela M. , Mohr Myron G.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Each year, teens who commit suicide leave behind more than 25,000 survivors. In addition to feelings of depression, anger, and guilt, the survivors must cope with societal attitudes toward suicide. Few resources are available to deal with the problem. This paper discusses the impact of teen suicide on survivors, and outlines educational and administrative postincident intervention guidelines for schools.
School Problems and Teacher Responsibilities in Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Taylor Janalee , Passo Murray H. , Champion Victoria L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) may cause a variety of school problems. Twenty‐four children with JRA, 24 of their parents, and 14 of their teachers completed questionnaires regarding the frequency of 40 potential school problems and the extent of the teacher's responsibility in helping children deal with 28 medical, academic, or social issues. Though respondents viewed school problems as occurring infrequently, parents and children more frequently than teachers noted that problems occurred (p < .05). Children felt problems with self‐concept and peer relationships occurred most frequently, while parents and teachers emphasized physical health and activity‐related problems. Children's ratings regarding extent of teacher's responsibility were lower than those of parents' or teachers' ratings (p < .05). While parents and teachers viewed the teacher as responsible for helping children deal with psychosocial issues, children felt that teachers should deal primarily with academic areas. Children viewed teachers as being responsible for withholding information about arthritis from their classmates, and did not want their teacher to encourage peer interaction. Results indicate major differences exist between perceptions of children with JRA, and their parents and teachers, regarding frequency of problems and extent of the teacher's responsibility. Since children may resist assistance from teachers in psychosocial areas, their views should be considered before planning interventions to resolve such problems.
A Portable, Self‐Instructional Stress Management Program for College Students
Authors: Greenberg Jerrold S. , Ramsey Sheila A. , Hale Janet Fraser
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article describes the process used to develop a stress management program for college students and the program that resulted. Based on a needs assessment and piloting of the program, a portable, modular self‐instructional program was developed. The program consists of five instructional stations: Assessment; The Nature of Stress and the Skill of Cognitive Restructuring; The Effects and Consequences of Stress and Time Management Skills; Relaxation Skills; and Planning For Stress Control. Feasibility in administering the program was of particular importance, so the program was portable. It can be transported to residence halls, student unions, or other gathering places, and it does not require a trained professional to be present. Included are two videotapes and two slide/audiotapes produced by the program's developers, one relaxation tape (guided imagery), and handout materials.
Self‐Concept, Stress Symptomatology, and Tobacco Use
Authors: Bonaguro John A. , Bonaguro Ellen W.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study examined psychosocial variables associated with cigarette use while controlling for developmental aspects of adolescence. The variables examined included self‐esteem, home‐esteem, peer‐esteem, and adolescent symptomatology of stress. Nine hundred thirty‐four students in grades four‐12 from 12 schools in two southeastern Ohio counties participated in the study. Data were collected using the Hare Self‐Concept Scale, the Adolescent Stress Symptomatology Scale, and a self‐report tobacco use instrument. Multiple analyses of covariance were used and, if significant multivariate differences existed, univariate analyses were conducted. Results suggest adolescent cigarette use and intervention strategies should be viewed from a psychosocial and developmental perspective.
Cancer Knowledge and Acceptance of Children with Cancer
Authors: Mabe P. Alex , Riley William T. , Treiber Frank A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In this study, a Cancer Knowledge Questionnaire (CKQ) for elementary schoolchildren was developed and the relationship of cancer knowledge to attitudinal predispositions to accept and interact with children with cancer was assessed. CKQ includes 21 yes‐no items that assess general cancer knowledge and knowledge of cancer's effects on social and emotional functioning. A sample of 478 children, ages six‐12, completed CKQ, and a separate sample of 41 children completed it on two occasions separated by a one‐week interval. Adequate internal consistency and test‐retest reliability were obtained. Children's knowledge of cancer increased with age but generally was limited across all age groups. Knowledge of cancer was associated positively with previous experiences with cancer, lower fear of cancer, less worry about children with cancer, and attitudinal predispositions to accept and interact with children having cancer.
Three Applications of the Role Delineation Project 1985 Curriculum Framework
Authors: McMahon Joan D. , Bruess Clint E. , Lohrmann David K.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Colleges are beginning to use the Role Delineation Project Curriculum Framework for curricular reform at the graduate and undergraduate levels. This paper describes the efforts of three universities to revise their curricula based on the Framework. At Towson State University, it is being used with other national and state standards to assess health educators. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, it provided the structure by which the faculty determined the competence of exiting health majors. At the University of Georgia, it was used in strategic planning and graduate education restructuring. The Framework, while lacking material in certain professional development areas, provides the structure for departments to begin the process of health education curricula reform.
Celebrating 40 Years of the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Lenfant Claude , Stone Elaine , Castelli William
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The 40th anniversary of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute provided an opportunity to pay tribute to the Framingham Heart Study, the landmark epidemiological study that examined longitudinally the development of coronary heart disease in a general adult population. The Framingham Heart Study pioneered the concept that certain items, known eventually as risk factors, were associated with the development of heart disease. The concept of risk factors spawned a new generation of studies aimed at intervening to reduce the impact of risk factors on health. As part of its celebration of the 40th anniversary ‐ and the 100th anniversary of the National Institutes of Health ‐ the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, sponsored poster and essay contests for Framingham, Mass., students to commemorate the event. This article recaps the history of the Framingham Heart Study, describes the poster and essay contests, and outlines current and future involvement of the NHLBI in school health research.
Comprehensive Prenatal Care for Pregnant Teens
Authors: Isberner Fred , Wright W. Russell
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Comprehensive teen‐age pregnancy programs have endeavored to reduce associated morbidity and mortality. Positive results have been reported, but significant findings have been elusive. This article describes a rural program and compares the pregnancy outcomes of 60 matched nonparticipants. The study determined a relationship existed between participation in the program and maternal complications, birth weight, gestational age, Apgar score, and perinatal morbidity. Participants were matched perfectly on socioeconomic status and age, and near‐perfectly on year of delivery. Subjects also were matched on ethnicity, marital status, and residence. Participation and fewer maternal complications of anemia, infections, and eclampsia were significantly related. Remaining dependent variables were not significantly related, but low birth weight (six vs. 11) and prematurity (six vs. nine) were lower for participants. Suggestions for researchers of teen pregnancy programs are included.
The Relationship among Attitudes, Behaviors, and Biomedical Measures of Adolescents “At Risk” for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Adeyanju Matthew , Creswell William H.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study monitored trends in health behavior and attitudes of 93 adolescents who, according to clinical measures, were classified “at risk” for cardiovascular disease and determined the relationship among their health status, behavior, and attitude over a four‐year period. Data collected included biomedical measures and self‐reported health behaviors and attitudes. A greater proportion of “at risk” students reported negative health behavior changes in smoking, diet, alcohol, and stress. However, a positive health behavior trend was noted with respect to smokeless tobacco use declining from a high of 14% as freshmen to 8% as seniors. Also, students appeared sensitive to the potentially harmful effects of smoking. In general, a positive relationship existed among health status, health attitudes, and behavior. The findings justify screening to identify students “at risk” and beginning early intervention to prevent chronic disease in later life.
Elementary School Principals' Perceptions of Childhood Obesity
Authors: Price James H. , Desmond Sharon M. , Stelzer Cathleen M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This survey assessed school principals' perceptions regarding childhood obesity and the schools' role in dealing with the problem. A randomly selected group of 300 school principals was obtained from the National Association of Elementary School Principals; 227 (76%) administrators returned the questionnaire. Fifty‐one percent of the principals believed normal weight was important to child health. Although 35% believed schools were not doing enough to alleviate childhood obesity, responses suggested principals oppose schools becoming obesity treatment centers. They do not believe teachers or parents would support such programs. They perceived the school's role to be educational and referral in nature. However, they supported elimination of “junk food” machines (71%) and provision of low calorie lunches (60%). They believed school nurses play the most important role in treating childhood obesity at school.
Self‐Esteem, Health Locus of Control, and Health Attitudes Among Native American Children
Authors: Lamarine Roland J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Self‐esteem and health locus of control have been postulated as predictors of attitudes and behaviors related to child health. The association among these variables has not been assessed adequately among Native American children. This study measured the relationship among self‐esteem, health locus of control, and health attitudes of Native American fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students. A statistically significant relationship was found between self‐esteem and positive attitudes toward health. Self‐esteem was a modest predictor of health attitudes and health behavioral intentions among Navajo and Pueblo children.
School Promotion of Healthful Diet and Exercise Behavior: An Integration of Organizational Change and Social Learning Theory Interventions
Authors: Parcel Guy S. , Simons‐Morton Bruce G. , O'Hara Nancy M. , Baranowski Tom , Kolbe Lloyd J. , Bee David E.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In the Go For Health project, interventions based on organizational change and social learning theory facilitate changes in diet and exercise behavior by elementary school children. Baseline data documented the need for behavior change. Based on chemical analyses, average per meal amounts of total fat and sodium were higher than national recommendations: total fat was 29.3% higher than U.S. Dietary Goals; sodium was 107.4% greater than recommended levels. Observations of students in physical education class revealed children moved through space 50.1% of the time and moved continuously an average of 2.2 minutes per class period. These findings suggest the need for policy and practice changes in the school environment to enable children to engage in more healthful diet and exercise behavior. (J Sch Health 1987;57(4):150–156)
Implementation of “Heart Smart:” A Cardiovascular School Health Promotion Program
Authors: Downey Ann M. , Frank Gail C. , Webber Larry S. , Harsha David W. , Virgilio Stephen J. , Franklin Frank A. , Berenson Gerald S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The Bogalusa Heart Study, an investigation of 8,000 children, has compiled a large data bank on cardiovascular (CV) risk factors in children during the past 12 years. Precursors of heart disease begin at a young age, with many children already possessing one or more known clinical risk factors – hypertension, obesity, and adverse lipoprotein changes. Having obtained data examining the determinants, distributions, interrelationships and trends over time for CV risk factors, a foundation was provided to address additional questions directed toward intervention strategies. “Heart Smart” is a comprehensive, research‐based CV health promotion program testing differential effects of a population (public health) strategy versus a high‐risk approach within four elementary schools. The major goal of “Heart Smart” is to reduce CV risk factors in children with an intervention to facilitate the adoption of healthful lifestyles. Objectives, intervention modalities, and design and evaluation procedures for children and adults in a total school environment (K‐6) are described.
Self‐care Motivation: A Model for Primary Preventive Oral Health Behavior Change
Authors: Horowitz Leonard G. , Dillenberg Jack , Rattray Janet
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Attempts to promote compliance of children with preventive health practices are most successful when strategies for motivating self‐care behavior change address the physical, cognitive, and affective components of individuals. This study evaluated the effectiveness of using a Self‐care Motivation Model and curriculum to promote oral health and hygiene behavior change among 92 third grade students randomly selected according to homeroom assignments in five Gloucester, Mass., public schools. Student gingival health and oral hygiene measures were obtained two weeks prior to, and two weeks, three months, and one year after educational sessions. Group one, comprised of mid‐high socioeconomic status family students, served as an oral examination control. Groups two‐five received educational sessions designed to teach students various aspects of oral health. Significant improvements (p < .001) in gingival health and dental plaque scores were observed in all experimental groups for up to three months. During a period of three months to one year, mean group scores returned to baseline and worsened for all groups except group five, the lowest socioeconomic family status group and the only group receiving the full series of self‐care motivation curriculum sessions. Experimental group teachers reported that most children responded favorably to the program, and specific attitude and behavior changes were observed in many children. Further research evaluating the efficacy of using this self‐care motivation model in primary preventive health education programs is indicated.
Lyme Disease: An Increasing Health Risk for School‐age Children
Authors: Hahn Dale B. , Pinger Robert R. , Hahn Ellen J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Lyme disease, a bacterial infection with noticeable short‐term and serious long‐term consequences, is the most common tick‐borne disease. First described in 1977, Lyme disease poses a significant health threat to school‐age children exposed to the tick vector primarily in three specific regions of the United States. This article describes Lyme disease and its clinical signs and symptoms, and discusses the school nurse's role in identification, management, and prevention of this new health risk.
Effects of the Bogus‐Pipeline on Enhancing Validity of Self‐Reported Adolescent Drug Use Measures
Authors: Werch Chudley E. , Gorman Dean R. , Marty Phillip J. , Forbess Janet , Brown Barry
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study examined effects of a bogus objective measure (bogus‐pipeline) on self‐reports of experimenta‐tion, frequency, intentions, beliefs, and attitudes related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. One hundred ninety‐one adolescents (x age = 11.74 years) were assigned randomly to one of three conditions: a bogus‐pipeline with saliva collection, a bogus‐pipeline only, or a questionnaire only control. A significantly greater percentage of participants in the questionnaire only condition (28%) reported having experimented with alcohol, compared to those in the bogus‐pipeline only condition (22%), and the bogus‐pipeline with saliva condition (21%). No differences were found across conditions for subject experimentation with other drugs, frequency of drug use, intentions to use drugs, and beliefs and attitudes related to drug use (p > .05). The discrepancy among studies suggesting a validity enhancing effect due to bogus‐pipeline procedures and those indicating no effect may be accounted for by variables including age, experimental setting, population under study, and drug types. The broad, unquestioned application of the bogus‐pipeline in tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use prevention programs, or epidemiological studies of drug use, cannot be recommended at present.
AIDS Education at the Local Level: The Pragmatic Issues
Authors: Lohrmann David K.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Several documents have been published offering guidelines for implementing AIDS education. These documents generally cite the need for AIDS education, and identify issues and concerns inherent in planning AIDS education. Though such guidelines are beneficial in establishing the legitimate need for AIDS education, the information provided does not address the pragmatic issues involved in planning and implementing AIDS education at the local level. This article recommends approaches for addressing five pragmatic issues at the local level: formalizing an AIDS education policy, addressing concerns about morality, placement of AIDS instruction within comprehensive health education, formulation of a curriculum development model, and relating to the local news media.
Health Education Needs in Child Care Programs
Authors: Nelson Gary D. , Hendricks Charlotte M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This article contains results from an assessment of health education needs in child care programs serving preschool children. The assessment included identification of the scope of health education activities provided in child care programs, and the program director's perception of benefits of and barriers to health education in child care settings. A mail survey assessed the health education needs in a random sample of licensed child care programs in Alabama. Survey results identified factors affecting adoption and delivery of early childhood health education programs.
A Comprehensive Approach to Drug‐Free Schools and Communities
Authors: Fox C. Lynn , Forbing Shirley E. , Anderson Patricia S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A comprehensive approach to developing and maintaining drug‐free schools and communities is discussed. Five sequential phases, needs assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination, are described. An effective implementation program meets the needs of students at various stages of drug use and abuse. Prevention strategies are effective with students who have only experimented or never used drugs, while early intervention strategies are most effective for students who have a more regular use pattern. Chemically dependent students need referral for treatment at a community social agency. After treatment and rehabilitation, returning to a supportive aftercare school program proves most effective. The approach described in this article advocates a team effort including well‐trained school core teams collaborating with parents and community representatives from law enforcement, social agencies, business, religious groups, and the media.
Tobacco Use Prevention and Health Facilitator Effectiveness
Authors: Young Russell L. , Elder John P. , Green Mia , de Moor Carl , Wildey Marianne B.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Tobacco prevention programs often use peers to teach refusal skills to other adolescents. College undergraduate health facilitators delivered a tobacco prevention intervention to sixth and seventh grade students in six schools. Outside observers evaluated facilitators in seven categories: being prepared, maintaining class control, keeping students' attention, encouraging participation, communication, relating to students, and working well in a team. Facilitators were rated highly in all categories. Higher rated health facilitators had more effect in reducing tobacco use than poorly rated facilitators. Facilitators who worked well in a team, related well to students, and were well‐prepared were especially effective in positively influencing program outcomes.
Patterns and Prevalence of Smokeless Tobacco Use by High School Seniors in New York
Authors: Olds R. Scott
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Patterns and prevalence of smokeless tobacco use by high school seniors in New York state were identified in this study. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 10% of each senior class in 96 randomly selected public and nonpublic secondary schools in New York; 1,830 students participated. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, t‐tests, and chi‐square tests. Comparisons were made by gender, hometown status, concurrent use of smokeless tobacco and cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco use versus cigarette smoking. Results revealed a significant difference existed between males and females and between urban and rural smokeless tobacco use (p = .05). Use of chewing tobacco related significantly to use of cigarettes (p = .05). A significant difference existed between prevalence of cigarette smoking and smokeless tobacco use (p = .05). Smokeless tobacco use by high school seniors in New York is predominantly a habit of rural males. Use of chewing tobacco is related to cigarette smoking, and smokeless tobacco was less prevalent than cigarette smoking in the sample (p = .05). Further research on the relationship between smokeless tobacco and cigarette smoking should be conducted. Use of chemical assays or the bogus pipeline to validate self‐reported data is recommended. Identified high‐risk groups such as rural males should receive particular attention in future research efforts.
Food Preferences, Beliefs, and Practices of Southeast Asian Refugee Adolescents
Authors: Story Mary , Harris Linda J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Food preferences, beliefs, and practices were assessed among 207 Southeast Asian refugee high school students, all of whom had been in the U.S. five years or less. Questionnaires typed both in English as well as their native language of either Cambodian, Vietnamese, or Hmong, were administered to all students in a classroom setting. Results indicated Southeast Asian refugee youth have maintained strong ties to their native foods and traditional meal patterns. In the U.S., as in Southeast Asia, rice remains the staple food in their diet. High status foods in Southeast Asia such as fruits, meats, and soft drinks remain highly preferred in the U.S. While milk is well‐liked, cheese remains a strongly disliked food item. Fruits and vegetables are frequently consumed. Nutritionally weak American foods such as candy bars, cake, and potato chips are not consumed frequently. However, soft drinks are consumed daily by almost one‐third of the students. Breakfast was missed by almost 60% of females and 37% of males. Forty‐five percent of the youth reported they had primary responsibility for evening meal preparation.
Evaluating Pedestrian Safety Education Materials for Children Ages Five to Nine
Authors: Race Kathryn E. H.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: How well do pedestrian safety materials meet the educational needs of children ages five‐nine? The National Safety Council sought to answer this question in assembling such materials in developement of a national program on pedestrian safety. To do this, the Council relied heavily on information suggested by accident and evaluation research. The information then was incorporated in a set of criteria that formed the basis for an evaluative review structure. This article provides an overview of the major child pedestrian accident types, behavior patterns, and suggested solutions identified by past research, outlines the procedure used to collect and review existing materials, and describes results of the Council's effort to select high‐quality pedestrian safety education materials for use in the program. Safety education needs and priorities of the child pedestrian are discussed.
Prevalence of Alcohol and Drug Use Among North Carolina Public School Students
Authors: Palmer James H. , Ringwalt Christopher L.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: During spring 1987, North Carolina conducted a drug prevalence survey on a randomly selected, stratified cluster sample of 10,259 seventh‐12th grade students enrolled in public schools. The survey assisted in development of new drug prevention programs funded by the Drug‐Free Schools Act of 1986. Results indicated alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana were the most commonly used drugs; males and whites were more frequent users than females and blacks; and almost 20% of 11th and 12th grade students reported coming to school drunk in the year preceding the survey. Extensive use of wine coolers and smokeless tobacco was noted. The need is discussed for other states to conduct similar surveys to establish a data base from which better programming decisions can be made.
The State Planning Committee for Health Education in Ohio
Authors: Capwell Ellen M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The State Planning Committee for Health Education in Ohio (SPCHEO) developed and applied a model for improving comprehensive school health programs that can be adapted and facilitated by health education coalitions or professional associations in any state. The model is based on development of a well‐rounded school‐community health team. SPCHEO members who assume the role of team organizers facilitate a planning process that includes building a school‐community health team, assessing and analyzing school health instruction, services, environment, and administration, establishing priorities, goals, and objectives, identifying resources, implementing strategies, and evaluation. The model stimulates action toward improved comprehensive school health programs. A new adaptation of the model is being explored to expand its impact.
Reliability of Health Knowledge Measurement in Very Young Children
Authors: Hendricks Charlotte M. , Peterson Fred , Windsor Richard , Poehler David , Young Michael
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study documented reliability of a picture identification instrument and determined its utility with young children in selected preschool programs. Three hundred eleven children, ages three‐five, were selected from formal early childhood education programs in three states. A comprehensive health knowledge instrument, consisting of 30 items, was administered to all children, and a retest was administered two weeks later to a 20% randomly selected subsample. Data analysis included reliability assessments and systematic modification of the instrument. Pearson's Product Moment Correlation and Kuder Richardson 21 analyses indicated the instrument is reliable when administered individually to children ages three‐five. The authors recommended this instrument, or a similar picture identification instrument, be used to assess comprehensive health knowledge.
Health‐related Characteristics of Selected School Principals
Authors: Smith Dennis W. , Bibeau Daniel L. , Altschuld James W. , Heit Philip
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This survey identified and described health characteristics of selected school principals — leaders and role models for teachers and students. A questionnaire assessing multiple areas of well‐being collected data on principals' health in seven areas including attitudes, behavior, illnesses, and life experiences. Results indicated a higher‐than‐average group well‐being score and a range of healthful behaviors practiced over the seven areas. Principals reported little involvement with drugs, relative comfort in their employment, and healthful patterns of coping behaviors. Changes that might contribute to increased well‐being were indicated in physical exercise, diet, and stress and time management. Implications for these results include using the principal's interest in health and role modeling behaviors to promote the school health program.
The Influence of Self‐Esteem, Parental Smoking, and Living in a Tobacco Production Region on Adolescent Smoking Behaviors
Authors: Murphy Nancy Twitchell , Price Cynthia J.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Selected antecedents of smoking initiation among 1,513 eighth grade students in an urban tobacco producing county of North Carolina were studied using the Tobacco Cigarette Smoking Questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale. Fifteen percent of students reported currently smoking, and 17.2% indicated an intention to smoke upon graduation from high school. Self‐esteem and parental smoking behavior related significantly to adolescents' smoking behavior and future intention to smoke. Significantly more females intended to smoke and had lower self‐esteem than males. Family involvement in the tobacco industry related significantly to adolescents' intention to smoke but not their smoking behavior. Overall, low self‐esteem and parental smoking models may be important to developing the smoking habit among young adolescents. Prevention of smoking initiation should involve promotion of children's self‐esteem and avoidance of parental smoking modeling prior to the eighth grade.
Simple Procedures for Comprehensive Vision Screening
Authors: Hall Philip S. , Wick Bruce C.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Visual problems can cause poor academic performance or inappropriate behavior. This article explains simple, easily administered procedures to determine if students have problems with acuity, accommodation, binocularity, or eye movements. The evaluator can use vision screening in conjunction with associated learning or behavior problems to initiate referral to the family vision care specialist.
Courtship Violence
Authors: Billingham Robert E. , Henningson Kathryn A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Historically, the courtship relationship is thought to be one of peace and tranquility. However, recent research has demonstrated that many dating relationships include violence as a means to resolve conflicts. While differences have been found in the prevalence of violence between high school and college students, both groups report similar locations, causes, and consequences for the behavior. Peers are cited most often as confidants for students who have experienced the violence. Unfortunately, almost 25% of those who experience violence report it to no one. This paper also describes means school health personnel can use to discuss courtship violence with students. By demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to the problem, school health personnel may be able to counter use of violence in dating relationships.
Pediculosis Capitis among Primary Schoolchildren in Urban and Rural Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Ebomoyi Ehigie
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The prevalence of head lice (pediculosis humanus capitis) was investigated among urban and rural schoolchildren in Ilorin, capital of Kwara State, Nigeria, and two neighboring rural communities. Among the pupils, 57 (3.1%) of 1,842 urban schoolchildren examined were infested, compared with only one (0.1%) of 1,056 rural school pupils. More female pupils had infestations. Children less than age five, primary I pupils, and pupils in primary VI were not infested. Urban schoolchildren with 41–45 lice per head constituted 7.7% of those infested with nits and lice. Most infected children had one‐five and 11–15 lice per head. The school health component of the national primary health care scheme should be intensified to screen schoolchildren regularly for pediculosis and other childhood diseases.
The Checkerboard Cardiovascular Curriculum: A Culturally Oriented Program
Authors: Harris Mary B. , Davis Sally M. , Ford Valerie L. , Tso Helen
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: A cardiovascular health education curriculum was designed and pilot‐tested with 218 fifth grade students from rural New Mexico. The program incorporated materials, examples, and exercises relevant to the Navajo and Pueblo American Indian and Hispanic cultures of the students. Significant increases in knowledge about the cardiovascular system, exercise, nutrition and obesity, tobacco use, and habit change were found, suggesting a culturally oriented program may help promote a healthy lifestyle in minority group children.
Education for Healthy Body Weight: Helping Adolescents Balance the Cultural Pressure for Thinness
Authors: Collins M. Elizabeth
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Though education for healthy body weight traditionally has focused on obesity, the increased incidence of anorexia nervosa and bulimia among young women suggests education also is needed to address the opposite end of the spectrum. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are complex and multidimensional disorders associated with individual, family, and sociocultural factors. This article examines the cultural pressure for dieting and thinness currently experienced in America and its impact as a possible predisposing factor for developing eating disorders among adolescent females. Literature is reviewed related to the changing American standard of attractiveness for females reflected by 20th century mass media and its subsequent influence on adolescent concerns for dieting and thinness. Preventive strategies are recommended to help adolescents balance the cultural pressure for thinness and their own desires for attractiveness within the larger context of overall good health.
Preactive Planning and Conceptions of Success in Elementary Health Education
Authors: Carter Jo A. , Lee Amelia M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Prospective classroom teachers' thoughts and understanding about teaching health were examined in this study. The study described the preactive thought processes of classroom teachers as they planned a lesson on health and teachers' conceptions of success and failure during the lesson. Before teaching a 30‐minute lesson in health, participants were asked to “think aloud” during a planning session. Content of the thoughts was audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed. After the lesson, participants listed critical events they described as related to success and lack of success during the lesson. Content of the written accounts was organized into clusters with common elements. Findings indicated teachers' concerns during planning were related to identifying and arranging content for maximum involvement and enjoyment. Most teachers defined success in terms of student affective rather than cognitive behaviors.
Teacher Perspectives after Implementing a Human Sexuality Education Program
Authors: Gingiss Phyllis Levenson , Hamilton Richard
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: To help teachers enhance the effectiveness of their classroom instruction in human sexuality education, it is necessary to understand their attitudes and concerns about their teaching experiences. Forty‐seven sixth grade teachers were surveyed one year after curriculum implementation to examine perceptions of themselves, their students, colleagues, and community. Teachers answered 70% of the knowledge items correctly and indicated slightly liberal orientations. Overall levels of teachers' views generally were positive on scales designed to measure: importance of the items studied, responsibility for student outcomes, three measures of comfort, adequacy of preparation, required changes, ease of use, social supports, and student responses. However, patterns of teacher responses within scales indicated numerous concerns related to curriculum implementation. The concerns and teacher‐identified benefits and barriers to teaching the course indicate a focus for continuing education.
Ethical Issues in Research and Publication
Authors: Lammarino Nicholas K. , O'Rourke Thomas W. , Pigg R. Morgan , Weinberg Armin D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Ethical considerations inherent in the process of research and publication represent one issue of particular concern to professionals. Members of a profession usually are guided by a code of ethics that specifies standards for practice. However, rarely do professional preparation programs sufficiently prepare students to deal with the concerns associated with research and professional publication. The authors address three specific areas of concern for health educators: the student‐professor relationship, joint authorship, and ethics in publishing. Potential problems are discussed, and implications for the profession are cited.
Instrument Validity and Reliability in Three Health Education Journals, 1980–1987
Authors: Lamp Edward , Price James H. , Desmond Sharon M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Investigators examined how often validity and reliability measures were reported for research articles in three health education journals: Health Education, Health Education Quarterly, and the Journal of School Health. Articles published from 1980 to 1987 were considered in the analysis. Of the 611 articles published by Health Education during the period used for analysis, 128 (21%) met the criteria of a research article. Reliability was reported for 22 (17%) articles, and validity was reported for 78 (61%) articles. Health Education Quarterly published 212 articles; 74 (35%) were research articles. Reliability was reported for 16 (21%) articles and validity was reported for 40 (54%) articles. The Journal of School Health published 778 articles, of which 243 (31%) were research articles. Reliability was reported for 62 (25%), and validity was reported for 164 (67%) of the research articles. A chi‐square test found a significant difference among the number of research articles published by the journals. Chi‐square tests also found significant differences among the journals in the proportion of research articles that reported reliability information and the proportion that reported validity. A significant trend was noted for Health Education Quarterly and the Journal of School Health; the proportion of research articles that reported validity and reliability increased over time for both publications.
Attitudes, Knowledge, and Beliefs as Predictors of Exercise Intent and Behavior in Schoolchildren
Authors: Ferguson Kristi J. , Yesalis Charles E. , Pomrehn Paul R. , Kirkpatrick Mary Beth
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Physical education programs represent an important gateway for encouraging young people to develop lifelong exercise habits. In this study of middle school students (N = 603), attitudes toward physical education, knowledge about the benefits of exercise, and beliefs about one's abilities were assessed to determine their influence on exercise intent and current exercise behavior. As predicted, perceived benefits of exercise, current exercise behavior, attitudes toward physical education, self‐esteem, and gender contributed significantly and independently to exercise intent (total variance explained = 37%). Exercise intent, outside sports activities, perceived benefits of exercise, gender, and attitudes toward physical education contributed significantly and independently to current exercise behavior (total variance explained = 27%). Programs that make attending physical education a pleasant experience and that explain specific benefits of exercise can influence exercise intent and can enhance students' sense of self‐esteem, both of which may increase future exercise behavior.
Safety and First Aid Behavioral Intentions of Supervised and Unsupervised Third Grade Students
Authors: Frederick Roxanne A. , White David M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: This study assessed the safety and first aid behavioral intentions of 285 third grade students. Of the participants, 19% were left at home unsupervised by someone older than age 12 at least three days a week. Students responded to a survey instrument that described situations related to stranger safety, fire safety, accident prevention, and first aid. Stranger safety items received the most correct responses, with females scoring significantly higher than males. Most responses to fire safety items were inappropriate, and 40% of accident prevention items received a dangerous response most frequently. First aid items received more dangerous responses than appropriate ones. Supervised students scored significantly higher than unsupervised students in accident prevention and first aid. Results indicated students' behavioral intentions often were dangerous for situations requiring judgments about safety or application of first aid.
The Influence of Parental Attitude and Behavior on Early Adolescent Cigarette Smoking
Authors: Newman Ian M. , Ward Jolene M.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: In 1983, Nolle and colleagues reported parental attitude may be more powerful than parental behavior in shaping adolescent cigarette smoking behavior. This study replicates the finding of Nolte et al and suggests parents need to be actively recruited to discourage their children from smoking, regardless of their own behavior. Fewer parents actively discourage youth smoking today than in 1983, a possible unfortunate result from an apparently successful effort to change the public attitude toward cigarette smoking.
Stability in a Measure of Children's Health Locus of Control
Authors: O'Brien Robert W. , Bush Patricia J. , Parcel Guy S.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Increased interest in children's health locus of control has precipitated continued examination of the psychometric properties of scales measuring this concept. The Children's Health Locus of Control scale (CHLC) was administered to more than 1,000 urban black students in each of four years across three grade levels: Year 1 ‐ grades four‐six to Year 4 ‐ grades seven‐nine. Factor analyses revealed five factors forming scales with acceptable reliability at each year. Students' beliefs that they have control over their own health increased as a function of age. Beliefs in self‐control had low, negative correlations with measures of external control. Stability of CHLC and the relatively simple procedure (16 dkhotomous items) suggest that, despite problems with wording of some items, CHLC is an appropriate and efficient measure for comparing cross‐sectional and longitudinal samples in this age range.
Smokeless Tobacco Use by Youth in the U.S.
Authors: Boyd Gayle M. , Glover Elbert D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: Oral snuff and chewing tobacco, commonly referred to as smokeless tobacco, are being used by many adolescent and young adult males, and no indication exists that use by this group is declining. Users are at risk for oral cancer, noncancerous oral pathology such as leukoplakias, and addiction. Information about patterns of smokeless tobacco use and motivations of users may help planners develop and implement interventions. Variables include the importance of peer and family influences, social image, knowledge of harmful effects, regional differences, use of other substances, and addiction. Due to the addictive nature of smokeless tobacco, older youth may need cessation programs. Health educators are encouraged to include smokeless tobacco in their tobacco use prevention programs and to develop and implement comprehensive tobacco interventions appropriate for their youth population.
Sunscreens: A Review of the Skin Cancer Protection Value and Educational Opportunities
Authors: Gilmore Gary D.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT: The scope and magnitude of increases in skin cancer incidence in the U.S. are described, as well as the associative factor of ultraviolet radiation exposure. The protection offered by routine application of sunscreen preparations is discussed as an essential part of a preventive regimen. Recommendations are presented for educational strategies that can be implemented in community and school settings. Presently‐available educational resources, as well as those in the developmental stages, also are identified.