Explores young adolescents' consumption of popular media and the impact of the media upon adolescent health (nutrition, sex, stress, and substance use). The paper provides recommendations for professionals working with early adolescents to help them arm that population with the skills to approach the media critically and make healthy choices. (SM)

In an experimental project, additional school health instruction was offered to eighth and ninth graders by infusing health topics and activities into required English classes. Eight teachers were trained to participate. Interviews with the teachers indicated; they and their students enjoyed the project; students increased health knowledge; and…

Factors related to distribution of adolescent health education were assessed. National Adolescent Student Health Survey data indicated that health education was widespread but inadequate regarding sexually transmitted diseases, suicide, and consumer health. Health curriculum varied by grade and was less related to gender needs. (SM)

Reports a study that compared the effects of a university health promotion course, before and after major revisions, on students' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Student questionnaires indicated that both versions were effective in improving lifestyle-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. The revised course was superior in modifying…

Describes one model of effective health instruction, highlighting what and how to teach. Two lesson types, skill development and values awareness, illustrate characteristics that incorporate theory specific to each outcome. By viewing health instruction as both a science and an art, teachers help ensure equal opportunity for all students to…

Provides an overview of the Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH) Eat Smart School Nutrition Program, an elementary school health promotion program. The article examines components of the CATCH kitchen visits and intervention materials, including the School Meal Program Guide, Fat and Sodium Criteria, Recipe File Box, Vendor…

Includes "Design of Process Evaluation (PE) within the Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health,""Classroom PE in a Multicenter Trial,""Food Service Program PE,""Physical Activity PE,""Family PE,""PE of Environmental Factors and Programs,""Challenges of Conducting PE in a Multicenter Trial." (SK)

Presents 11 articles on credentialing the health education professions. The articles provide a synopsis of the history and key events of the credentialing process; document its progress; examine concerns; and inform the health education community about the character, distribution, and aptitude of the current Certified Health Education Specialists…

Highlights some ethical issues that have begun to receive attention in health education and argues for greater emphasis on ethical dimensions in public health policies. Using selected moral principles, the article examines issues of individual responsibility, biases in interventions, societal obsessions with health, and the role of the health…

By the 21st century, there will be 5 new challenges for health education. Shifts in demographics, conceptions of family, and levels of activism will demand new thinking. Health educators must provide powerful leadership to pave the way. Approaches based on a new perception of health education are presented. (SM)

Examines alternate determinants of obesity, evaluates the efforts and results of current weight management programs, offers suggestions for change from traditional weight control programs, and discusses implications for health education. Comprehensive health education must include behavioral, cognitive, social, and nutritional components to…

Reports a study that assessed high-risk/low-risk safer sex behaviors among homosexual and heterosexual college students. Surveys indicated most students engaged in high-risk sexual behaviors that put them at risk for HIV infection regardless of their sexual orientation or fraternity/sorority affiliation. (SM)

Researchers examined college and university graduate bulletins to determine titles, admission information, and graduation requirements for master's degree health education programs. Degrees most common in nonschools of public health were master of science and of education. In schools of public health, master of public health degree were most…

A teaching methodology that can be utilized to address the lack of quality health instruction for special education students is cooperative teaching. A videotaped role play activity that involves the cooperation of health educators, special educators, and peer tutors can help special and regular education students develop health skills. (SM)

Explores multiple meanings of empowerment and community participation and what health means in this context. Considers whether the tyranny of the professional has been replaced by the tyranny of the community. (SK)