Reviews aspects of the epidemiology and criminology of delinquency and how they have been reflected in American films. Analyses show that when movies mimic certain aspects of the viewer's environment, an interactive or "resonating" effect may occur, such that young viewers may be more likely to commit delinquent acts. (RJM)

Two studies examined the place of emotion in self-construct models. The first presented three categories of adolescent identity types: connected, contracted, and expanded. The second verified that the contracted and expanded categories were more typical of adolescents than of children or adults. (MDM)

This study assessed best friends' similarities in identity status and related behaviors, attitudes, and intentions for 1,159 high school students. Questionnaire responses indicated that mutually identified best friends shared distinct similarities in ego identity. Findings replicated those of existing investigations of friendship attitude and…

Racial differences in adolescent premarital childbearing were largely explained by racial differences in neighborhood quality. These neighborhood effects were attributed to peer attitudes and behaviors, adolescents' more tolerant attitudes toward unmarried parenthood, and greater residential mobility in distressed communities. Neighborhood effects…

Examines older adolescents (N=167) perceived levels of attachment to parents and peers, along with their self-image. Results indicate that attachment to parents continues to remain strong into late adolescence for both males and females. Females had stronger attachment to peers whereas males had higher levels of self-image. (RJM)

Examines the differences in adolescent perceptions of life events, the level of stress due to life events, and coping strategies from high schools in three rural communities. Study finds substantial support for the hypotheses that differences do exist between communities and genders on life events, level of stress, and coping strategies. Discusses…

Investigated differences in normative and subjective outcomes for group of adolescent children born in India and adopted by American families. Found that although these adoptees could be considered unsuccessful compared to accepted standards of adjustment because 46 percent were identified as having special needs, in fact the children were pleased…

Interviews adolescent boys and girls about their experiences of silencing or loss of voice, their aspirations for the future, and their values regarding gender. Challenges counselors to reframe the problematic and stereotypical values and beliefs that adolescents internalize and openly address the vulnerability that both genders face in creating a…

Compared adolescent's position in the perceived peer group organization with measures of social status and mutual friendship among fourth- through sixth-graders. Found that peer group members who were marginal in the perceived structure were more likely than others to have a rejected status and be friendless. However, most rejected students were…

Societal trends indicate ambivalent attitudes about marriage, specifically a greater acceptance of divorce and nontraditional living arrangements. This paper examines adolescent attitudes toward marriage and their association with premarital sexual activity and cohabitation. Recommendations for helping adolescents understand the realities of…

Used the "Assessment and Action Record" from the "Looking After Children" materials to identify needs and desired outcomes for youth leaving out-of-home care in 1995 in an English local authority. Found that desired outcomes included providing information and knowledge, providing the means to acquire financial-related skills…

Examined conflicts between middle-class African American preadolescents/early adolescents and their parents. Found that conflicts were relatively frequent, of low intensity, and occurred over issues such as the adolescent's room, chores, activity choices, and homework. Early adolescents rated conflicts as more intense than preadolescents. Mothers'…

The distinguishing feature of today's youth is not technology, but aloneness. To reconnect with young people, educators should close the gap between school offerings and solitary net-surfing activities by offering computer gaming courses and guidance on approaching violent Internet imagery. Adult and youth cultures are interdependent. (Contains 11…

Early adolescent girls, predominantly of normal weight, were seen for 2 consecutive years and completed measures assessing their dieting, body image, and relationships with parents; weights and heights were also measured. Mothers rated daughters' pubertal growth. Findings indicated that negative parent-adolescent relationships are linked to higher…

Youth Surveys of the British Household Panel Study were used to examine the well being of adolescents. Well being is conceptualized as a multi-dimensional construct and models of gender and age differences were developed and tested. Confirmatory factor analysis found clear gender differences in self esteem, unhappiness, and worries. Many…