The relationship between high levels of body fat and emotional motivations for eating among Mexican-American children was examined. Data were gathered through a self-report instrument dealing with emotional motivators and through anthropometric measurements. Results are discussed. (Author/DF)

This article explores two methods of peer counseling used in high schools. The open model of counseling, or students trained to help other students, is described. (Author/DF)

Arguments for and against the installation of seat belts in school buses are discussed. (DF)

Documented health hazards associated with Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS), especially for children, justify school smoking bans. Acknowledging that enforcement may be difficult, this article suggests several implementation strategies; stressing health benefits and positive steps to help smokers quit. (IAH)

Results from a study of 207 Southeast Asian refugee high school students indicate that these students have maintained strong ties to their native foods and traditional meal patterns. Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Hmong students showed varying degrees of nutritional awareness. Implications of beliefs, preferences, and practices for nutrition education…

Safety education messages aimed at young children should be simple and emphasize direct how-to-cross instructions. "Left-right-left" search messages appear to be effective in counteracting common pedestrian errors of children. Included is a list of 28 child pedestrian safety materials, evaluated and selected from 274 submissions, by the National…

Questionnaires and interviews were used to survey 517 Colorado educators about their perceptions of the unmet mental health needs of elementary students. Significant unmet needs were perceived regarding self-image, peer and adult relationships, school skills and competencies. Most problems were perceived as home or family based, but meriting…

A survey of 10,259 North Carolina 7th-12th grade students revealed: alcohol, tobacco and marijuana were the most commonly used drugs; males and Whites were more frequent users than females and Blacks; almost 20 percent of 11th and 12th graders reported coming to school drunk. Results suggest considerations for drug prevention campaigns. (IAH)

An epidemiological update on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome as it relates to the school-age population emphasizes modes of transmission and recommends ways for handling infected students. (JD)

This position paper recommends that schools include instruction about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome as part of a comprehensive health education program for grades K-12. State departments of education and public health agencies are urged to assist schools in this process. (JD)

All school employees, including support staff, should receive preservice or inservice training about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is important that urban minority children be alerted to the dangers of AIDS, and that all children be aware that prevention must begin before self-destructive behavior begins. (JD)

The provision of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) education is of vital importance and must be introduced across the nation immediately. Recommendations are made for comprehensive health education on the part of schools, state and local health departments, and departments of education. Legal and ethical issues are discussed. (JD)

Recommendations are made for addressing five pragmatic issues at the local level: (1) formalizing an Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) policy; (2) addressing concerns about morality; (3) placement of AIDS instruction within comprehensive health education; (4) formulation of a curriculum development model; and (5) relating to the local…

The emergence of education as the best measure to counter the spread of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome carries with it certain consequences for the health education profession. This article discusses 10 actual or potential consequences the disease holds for the profession. (JD)

Analysis of junior high school principals' responses to a questionnaire assessing their individual health characteristics indicated a higher-than-average group well-being score and a range of healthful behaviors regarding drug use, job satisfaction, and coping, although administrators could improve well being through increased physical exercise,…