Teachers'' ability to identify peer-rejected children: A comparison of sociometrics and teacher ratings

The effectiveness of teachers in identifying children who experience peer relationship difficulties was examined by comparing populations selected by teacher ratings and sociometric nomination procedures. While significant overlap was found, substantial differences (both false-negatives and false-positives) emerged. An examination of populations selected and not selected by teachers revealed that they were successful in identifying those who experienced the most sever peer rejection. Further, it apperars that they were most likely to select children exhibiting academic difficulties.     

Microcomputers and Psychometric Assessment

A general overview is presented of recent developments in the field of automated psychometric assessment, with special emphasis on microcomputer-based systems. The potential advantages and disadvantages of computerised assessment in comparison to more traditional methods are discussed in some detail, and particular reference is made to a recent large-scale validation study of a microcomputer-based system. Minimum system requirements for this type of application are briefly outlined and a number of example applications are listed. Finally, consideration is given to likely future trends in this area.     

Patterns of social preference across different social contexts in golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia)

We investigated the role of mutual and circumstantial factors in maintaining exclusive social relationships in a New World primate. Four breeding pairs of golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia rosalia) were allowed to interact with their mate or an unfamiliar, opposite-sex adult in each of 4 different social contexts: in view of the mate, out of the mate's view, with only the mate present, and with only the unfamiliar animal present. Males and females were in proximity to, approached, and sniffed their mates significantly more often than they did unfamiliar tamarins. These behaviors suggest a preference for the familiar mate. However, when mates were absent, tamarins demonstrated significantly higher levels of approach and sniffs toward unfamiliar animals. These patterns of behavior indicate that circumstantial factors, such as social context, may regulate social interactions between paired tamarins and unfamiliar, opposite-sex conspecifics.     

A formal framework for quantum non-individuality

H. Post's conception of quantal particles as non-individuals is set in a formal logico-mathematical framework. By means of this approach certain metaphysical implications of quantum mechanics can be further explored.The authors would like to thank Prof. Newton C. A. da Costa and the anonymous referee for their comments and suggestions. S. French would also to thank his colleagues at Southeast Missouri State University for their support during the preparation of this work.     

An assessment of teratology training provided by masters level genetic counseling programs

The increasing demand in the clinical genetics setting for information about teratogen exposures has created a need for genetic counselors to have the capabilities to appropriately address patient concerns. In order to assess how training in teratogen counseling is currently being conducted, the GLaRGG Teratogen Subcommittee surveyed all 17 genetic counseling training programs in North America in September 1993. Information was obtained from training programs about coursework, resources, and clinical training. In addition, each training program was asked to provide information about how their teratogen training needs could better be met. While all programs responded that some information in their coursework applicable to teratogen counseling was provided, there was wide variation in the amount of time devoted to this topic. The programs also greatly differed in the provision of clinical training in teratogen counseling. For both coursework and clinical work, genetic counselors were the main trainers in teratogen counseling. In spite of this, fewer than 25% of training programs have a defined teratogen clinical rotation. Data from the survey are discussed and recommendations presented.     

Confounding as a problem in relating life events to health status in elderly individuals

Explored two types of confounding relevant to research relating major life events to physical illness in elderly individuals: (a) contamination of life events lists by health-related and subjective items; and (b) failure to control for illness existing prior to the life event assessment period. Community-residing elderly individuals (M = 70.4 years) completed two measures of health status in each of two waves of testing. During the second wave, participants also completed a life events list. Independent judges categorized the life events as health-related or not and further categorized non-health-related events as subjective or objective. Results indicated that life events-illness correlations were influenced by the presence of confounded items and that when illness present prior to the life event assessment period was controlled the relationship between confounded life events and illness decreased. These results underscore the importance of assessing possible sources of confounding when conducting life event illness research with elderly individuals.     

Elementary teachers' perceptions of stressful events and stress-related teaching practices

This study examined the relationships between stressful circumstances and self-reported teaching practices among 223 elementary teachers. Nine factors were identified as time control, relationships, curriculum concerns, students' motivation, career advancement, class size, role conflict, interference, and job security. The four stress reaction factors identified were burnout, reduction in work load, tolerance, and disengagement.