The Butchers, an eclectic approach to family therapy

The thesis of this paper is that differing theoretical constructs offer a variety of rich approaches when responding to the problems families present. To work exclusively within one theoretical framework is to deny oneself the value latent in other models, and thus restrict one's therapeutic competence. It is suggested that various family therapy models can be worked together without contradiction if they are subsumed in an overriding systems approach. It is also pointed out that the various models have particular capabilities and limitations with differing therapeutic goals. Ten interviews with one family are used to illustrate an eclectic approach in therapy.     

Detection of stimulus change: The hypothetical roles of visual transient responses

Two random-dot patterns (D1 and D2) were displayed briefly in close temporal succession, separated by an interstimulus interval (ISI). The two patterns were identical except that D2 could contain one more element (addition) or one less element (subtraction) than D1. Observers were required to detect the addition or subtraction using a two-alternative forced-choice method. Three experiments were designed to examine Phillips and Singer’s (1974) suggestion that detection of additions and subtractions can be explained in terms of neural ON and OFF responses. Experiment 1 replicated Phillips and Singer’s finding that performance is progressively impaired as the ISI is increased. In Experiment 2, sudden shifts in luminance between D1 and D2 were combined with several durations of ISI to produce transient responses in a novel manner. Experiment 3 explored the roles of transient neural responses and of configurational changes as determinants of performance. Most predictions based on Phillips and Singer’s model were confirmed by the experimental outcomes. Some discrepancies between theory and data are noted, and directions for further research are suggested.     

Relations between visceral and behavioral function in men at bedrest

Multiple physiological measurements as well as a self-assessment of arousal was made in eight men on the first, third, and fifth days of bedrest. On the third day, additional measurements of performance on memory and dexterity tasks were made. Univariate analysis did not reveal any physiological variable to either predict subsequent performance well or to co-vary acutely with it; however, self-rating scores did prove to be useful predictors of subsequent performance. Principal components analysis suggested an“alertness” factor comprised of physiological measures as well as selfratings which helped in predicting better performance. Although the individual patterns of correlations between variables on each of the three test days was variable, even more variability between subjects was found on the performance testing day. We believe this effect of behavioral activation may be due to the injection of common, slow temporal trends into many of the different data sets.     

Interactive effects of item content and ethnic group membership on performance on the McCarthy scales

The study investigated cultural bias in the 46 verbal items of the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA). The verbal items of the MSCA were administered to 59 Anglo and 59 Mexican-American subjects matched for age and sex. The responses of two groups of subjects on these items were analyzed by log-linear technique using the likelihood ratio chi-square statistic. The analysis of the data revealed that the majority of the verbal items of the MSCA are free from cultural bias. Only three items of the MSCA V-scale reflected systematic cultural bias. Two of these items are from the Word Knowledge II Subtest and the third one is from the Opposite Analogies Subtest. Suggestions for the use of the MSCA with children from minority cultures are made.     

Nearest neighbor analysis of point processes: Applications to multidimensional scaling

A new approach for evaluating spatial statistical models based on the (random) number 0 ≤ N(i, n) ≤ n of points whose nearest neighbor is i in an ensemble of n + 1 points is discussed. The second moment of N(i, n) offers a measure of the centrality of the ensemble. The asymptotic distribution of N(i, n) and the expected degree of centrality for several spatial and nonspatial point processes is described. The use of centrality as a diagnostic statistic for multidimensional scaling is explored.     

An analysis of interference in recognition memory

A stimulus-sampling model of recognition memory is presented that predicts both proactive and retroactive interference. To test the predictions of the model, a recognition memory experiment was carried out using a standard proactive-retroactive design with a forced-choice task. Both accuracy and latency were measured. The data showed, as predicted, equal proactive and retroactive effects on accuracy, providing solid support for the model. The interference effects are interpreted in terms of the model as arising from an increase in indirect marking, the marking of shared stimulus elements in words other than the study word. The model has two parameters representing the rate of indirect marking for high-frequency and low-frequency words and two parameters reflecting the efficiency of direct marking. The latency results completely paralleled the accuracy findings, showing proactive and retroactive effects. A possible extension of the model to handle latencies is considered.     

Intelligence scales for the blind: A review with implications for research

The verbal section of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) has become a frequently used assessment device and research tool with blind children. This article reviews and critiques studies involving the WISC with samples of blind subjects. Discussion focuses on reliability, validity, and research strategy. Recommendations and suggestions for further research place emphasis upon experimental analysis of behavior.