Complex movement patterns: Learning retention and sources of error in recall

In this study of kinaesthesis, the learning, retention, and recall of complex patterns was examined. Subjects were blindfolded, held a stylus in the right hand, and moved around stencil patterns, either actively or passively. The patterns were recalled with a free active movement of the right hand, after various amounts of practice, immediately or after a 60-s interval, once or twice in succession, with and without visual guidance. The shape and size of the drawings was compared with the criterion patterns. The effect of practice varied depending on whether the criterion movement was active or passive, and on the measure of recall performance. Even when the criterion patterns were freely practised, the recall traces showed large errors in shape and systematic shrinkage in size, and there were large individual differences. Regardless of these errors, recall performance was reliable. The effect of an unfilled retention interval varied as a function of practice. When the patterns were recalled under visual guidance, there was no shrinkage in the size of the drawings.     

Why the Brits are in two minds about therapy

Professor Frank Furedi is the author of a number of popular sociological discourses with a common theme that can be broadly summarised as betraying discomfort with 21st century western society's preoccupation with risk management. In this article, his arguments concerning the nature of what he calls 'therapy culture' are deconstructed for their essential conservative bias and persistent misunderstanding of the nature of modern psychological therapy. Three years ago, Furedi characterised counselling as 'one of the biggest cons of modern life' in conversation with the Health Editor of the Independent newspaper. My text highlights (1) the paucity of his evidence for this assertion and (2) his misguided grasp of the thrust of therapy since counselling is a difficult option whose sole goal is the stronger individualism and independence of the client—qualities he otherwise claims to admire.     

Capable of Suicide: A Functional Model of the Acquired Capability Component of the Interpersonal‐Psychological Theory of Suicide

A functional model of the acquired capability for suicide, a component of Joiner's (2005 ) Interpersonal‐Psychological Theory of Suicide, is presented. A component of Joiner's (2005 ) Interpersonal‐Psychological Theory of Suicide a functional model of the acquired capability for suicide is presented. The model integrates the points discussed by Joiner into a unified and specific conceptualization of acquired capability. Several points are elaborated on, such as the interaction between specific diatheses with life events, the role of short‐term bolstering of the capability for suicide, and how contextual factors moderate the experience of painful and provocative life events; thereby leading to fearlessness and pain insensitivity to the actions and ideas involved in suicide.     

Political Freedom and Organic Theories of States

The Journal of Value Inquiry -