The article examines cultural pressure for extreme thinness in the United States and its impact as a possible predisposing factor for developing eating disorders among adolescent females. Preventive strategies are recommended to help adolescents balance this pressure and their own desire for attractiveness within the larger context of good health.…

Survey responses of 341 North Carolina public school teachers were used to determine frequency of teacher contacts with children with chronic health conditions and needs related to the educational management of these children. Information on teachers' greatest concerns and most helpful resources regarding these children was also sought. Results…

Minnesota's "Tobacco-Free Schools" project encourages school districts to adopt policies which prohibit tobacco use for students, staff, and visitors. In one year, the project has increased the percentage of smoke-free schools in Minnesota from 3 to 43 percent. (Author/CB)

After pointing out that multicultural education is a necessary component for promoting cultural diversity and acceptance in the schools, the article proposes that school health education can benefit from incorporating both minority and international health issues into the curriculum. (Author/CB)

School health screening programs, which include screening, education of children and parents, and follow-up in the form of appropriate treatment, are described. A scoliosis screening program is described as an example of the model presented. Suggestions for planners, participants, and evaluators of any school health screening are summarized. (JMF)

Potentially important features and outcomes of sex education programs are examined in relation to program goals of reducing unwanted adolescent pregnancy and the facilitation of positive and fulfilling sexuality. A survey of sex education professionals indicates wide agreement on features and outcomes, as well as the compatibility of goals. (JMF)

Potential applications of computer technology to the field of health education are described, including the use of computers as instructional aids, as a teaching device, and as a tool for classroom management. (JMF)

The effectiveness of a daily toothbrushing program in kindergarten is discussed in terms of improved scores on two oral health indices and the development of positive health habits. (JMF)

An antismoking program for elementary schools, using a mannikin of a thirteen-year-old boy in a skit with a doctor, reveals some of the side effects of smoking, including shortness of breath, bad breath, stained teeth and fillings, and the inability to properly taste and smell. (JMF)

Some practical guidelines for developing multiple choice tests are offered. Included are three steps: (1) test design; (2) proper construction of test items; and (3) item analysis and evaluation. (JMF)

Approaches for teaching about homosexuality as part of the school health curriculum are offered. Suggestions include discussion of popular values and stereotypes, teaching by example, and teaching through role playing. (JMF)

School-related problems encountered by children suffering from asthma are investigated and several recommendations for reducing these problems are offered. (JMF)

A survey of teenagers in Missouri assessing their knowledge of contraception, abortion, reproduction, and venereal disease is reported. Results indicate that lack of information rather than incorrect information is the principal problem, and that teenagers are better informed about abortion than about birth control methods or reproduction. (JMF)

Two management approaches for hyperactive children with tactile defensiveness are described. Systematic desensitization uses sensory integration techniques. Implosion uses restraint and intense tactile stimulation implosively to break through the fear and hyperactive resistance. (JMF)

A study comparing the problems of adolescent mothers returning to school and taking part in a parent-infant program, returning adolescent mothers not enrolled in the program, and dropout mothers presents evidence strongly supporting parent-infant programs. (JMF)