Hardware and software evolution of an adaptive ability measurement system

A software system for the administration of six different strategies of adaptive ability tests in a variety of formats was developed both on a large-scale time-sharing system and on a real-time minicomputer system. Factors influencing both hardware selection and software design are discussed.     

Divided attention interferes with fulfilling activity-based intentions

Two experiments were conducted to examine the effects of divided attention on activity-based prospective memory. After establishing a goal to fulfill an intention upon completion of an ongoing activity, successful completion of the intention generally suffered when attention was being devoted to an additional task (Experiment 1). Forming an implementation intention at encoding ameliorated the negative effects of divided attention (Experiment 2). The results from the present experiments demonstrate that activity-based prospective memory is susceptible to distraction and that implementing encoding strategies that enhance prospective memory performance can reduce this interference. The current work raises interesting questions about the similarities and differences between event- and activity-based prospective memories.     

The Effects on Layoff Survivors of Their Fellow Survivors' Reactions1

A multimethod series of studies examined factors that moderate the effects on layoff survivors of their fellow survivors' reactions. Studies 1 and 2 showed that survivors' work performance was more influenced by the reactions of fellow survivors who were relatively attractive. Study 3 revealed that survivors' work performance and turnover intention were more positively related to the reactions of relatively attractive fellow survivors, but only when the survivors had relatively little communication with their fellow survivors about the layoff; among those who communicated a great deal with fellow survivors about the layoff, work performance, and turnover intention were positively related to their fellow survivors' reactions, regardless of the attractiveness of their fellow survivors. The discussion focuses on theoretical and practical implications, limitations of the studies, and areas for further research.     

The differential relationship between attribution and depression for male and female college students

This study tested for the presence of a differential relationship between attribution and depression for male and female college students. Results yielded no significant differences within male or female positive or negative internality, stability, globality, or composite attribution scores. However, a significant correlation was found between Attributional Style Questionnaire composite negative and Beck Depression Inventory scores for males, but not for females.     

Discriminant validity of the Conners’ scales for ADHD subtypes

Differential diagnosis and treatment of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) remains difficult and controversial, particularly when children present with concomitant academic and behavior problems. Describing a sample of 184 chil-dren referred for evaluation in a university-affiliated outpatient pediatric clinic, this study subsequently examined the discriminant validity of the Conners’ parent and teacher rating scales for ADHD subtypes with and without comorbid conditions. Although discriminant analyses suggest several Conners’ subscales help differentiate subtypes, multimethod evaluations using a variety of data sources are necessary for accurate identification and classification of the disorder with and without comorbid conditions. These data were previously reported at the 107^th Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association, Boston, Massachusetts. The authors express gratitude to Ross D. Crosby, Ph.D., Director of Biomedical Statistics and Methodology at the Neuropsychiatrie Research Institute, for his pre-submission review of the article.