This paper describes variables which tend to influence the utility of health education literature. It is important that instructional materials be suited to the reading level of the students as well as their ability to comprehend the meaning of the printed materials. A graph for estimating reading level is included. (JD)

There is a vast difference between factual information and a sense of understanding that comes from the organization of knowledge in a way in which it can be used in decision processes. Recognition of interdependencies and interrelatedness leads to understanding and utilization. (JD)

Results of an investigation to evaluate the effectiveness of a portable self-instructional stress management program for college students are reported. Program components (five self-contained learning stations) are described. Program effectiveness was measured, using several instruments, by changes in subjects'(n=150) knowledge, attitudes, and…

Findings from a study based on interviews with 141 first-grade, third-grade, and kindergarten students indicate that the primary stressors perceived by these students are school work and peer relationships. The coping strategies most often mentioned by these children were social support and acceptance, direct action, and distraction. (IAH)

Results are reported from a study, involving 35 female undergraduates, which examined the correlation between the health of the students, as measured by self-reported incidence of illness and directly observable physiological (blood pressure) measures, and the frequency and perceived stress of examinations and assignments. (IAH)

Results are reported from a study of 204 elementary and secondary health education majors who were surveyed to determine if differences exist on the relative importance of selected health content areas, including first aid and safety, nutrition, emotional health, dental health, disease, alcohol/tobacco/drugs, sex education, and body systems. (IAH)

This article describes Wellness Weekend workshops, a collaborative effort between Texas A & M University and 13 Texas school districts. Eighty participants, including principals, teachers, support staff, and central office administrators received a literal and physical immersion into the concepts of health promotion. (IAH)

Findings are reported from a study conducted to design, implement, and evaluate the effects of a cardiovascular screening and educational training program aimed at reducing heart disease risk factors of corrections personnel. Inclusion of peer educator/advocate intervention significantly affected the incidence of certain risk factors. (IAH)

It is the academic community's responsibility to respond to the three-pronged training needs of community health educators/promotors: traditional/content health education; health education/health promotion skills, methods, and approaches; and management and administrative skills. Contributions of the Role Delineation Project and the PRINCESS and…

This article describes a four-lesson mock situation exercise carried out in a college-level first aid course as a means of assessing students' comprehensive first aid knowledge and practical skills. A sample mock situation form is included. (IAH)

The latest research on hypertension suggests that students should be taught to cut down on overall sodium intake, increase overall calcium intake, increase overall potassium intake, and decrease intake of dietary fats. (JD)

Cardiovascular (CV) risk-related behavior patterns are acquired during childhood; therefore CV intervention programs must begin at an early age. A CV health promotion program developed for elementary students is described. (JD)

Data from this study suggest that alcohol abuse is a significant social problem among college students. One implication of the findings is that the problem of abusive drinking must be dealt with in order to intervene effectively with one of its consequences--driving while under the influence. (JD)

A study of alcohol consumption among employed women and educational implications derived from it are discussed. Results indicated that not only do women drink differently from men, but also rural and urban women drink differently. It is suggested that rural and urban alcohol educational programs should be structured differently. (JD)

This article provides an historical perspective within which two recent, alternative directions for health education are examined. The first focuses primarily on personal bahavior change and the latter on a broad empowerment/environmental model of health promotion. (Author)