The transition from primary to secondary school can be a period of anxiety for many children. Although most schools have developed systems to ease this process, it has been argued that the emphasis is often on administrative and organisational procedures. In contrast, children and parents are typically more concerned with personal and social…

Good self-esteem and self-concept have a bearing on a child's performance in school. The article describes ways to recognize poor self-image in a child and suggests strategies for building self-concept. Activities listed include positive marking of papers, bibliotherapy, improvisational drama, and values clarification. (DS)

This study evaluated a Chattanooga, Tennessee, leadership training program provided to 30 grade 10-11 students who demonstrated high leadership potential. Program results indicated positive changes in student openness, persuasiveness, ascendance, individual decision making, and self-assurance. A three-month followup found lasting effects, with…

Describes interviews with high school teachers and students from New Hampshire, Illinois, and Georgia in which the author asked teachers and students to define the term "character" as part of an investigation into the moral lives of children. (MD)

Responds to an article by David Dewhurst which argued that self-esteem is not always related to comparisons between oneself and others. Contends that personal qualities such as kindness and generosity are as important in developing self-esteem as achievement and competence. Concludes that both approaches are necessary if students' self-esteem is…

Discusses David Dewhurst's contention that students' self-esteem is best improved through self-acceptance rather than by comparisons with others. Argues that some comparisons are essential to the concept of self and therefore are important to self-esteem. Concludes that some students may have low self-esteem because they accurately assess their…

Real depression in children can manifest itself in many ways. Every human being is somewhat different and consequently distress signals and breaking points do not always imitate each other. What remains constant is the internal emotional desert and emptiness. Depression is not just feeling sad or lethargic. Depression is a state in which…

Reports on a study of self-concept among 424 Greek elementary students classified as normal achievers, low achievers, and those with learning difficulties. Finds that special education students rated themselves lower than their normally achieving and low achieving peers on academic self-concept. (CFR)

Reports on a study of the sources and levels of stress in relation to locus of control and self-esteem among 675 British university students. Finds differences between male and female students. Maintains that students with high self-esteem are less stressed than those with low. (CFR)

Replies to criticism of the author's views on self-esteem and self-assessment. Contends that there is more agreement than disagreement. Argues that the student-teacher relationship is more important than critics contend. (CFR)

This paper presents basic information about the brain and how learning takes place, considers causes of differing human temperaments as explained by principles of Jungian psychology, reports on research on the causes of low achievement, and suggests a method to correct many educational problems. Principles of developmental neurology and right/left…

Although there has been reluctance to support direct methods of teaching moral values and character traits, due in part to lack of consensus about whose values should be taught, a national call to rethink that trend has begun to be heard. An up-to-date account is provided of the recommendations of the Oregon State Board of Education to mandate…

The study, with 89 gifted girls in grades 1-12, found decreased self-regard, self-confidence, inner courage, and self-assurance with increased age. Levels of perfectionism, hopelessness, discouragement, and emotional vulnerability rose with increasing age. Findings suggest the need for strong identity information and models and the encouragement…

Bulimia, an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging and intense feelings of guilt and failure, is increasing among young women. The eating behavior is only a symptom of more complex underlying problems such as feelings of inadequacy, social isolation, depression, rigid thinking, self-defeating thoughts, and perfectionism.…

Arranged into two parts, the book provides a model for helping students develop a positive self-esteem. Part 1 presents five lessons aimed at improving self-image. Lesson 1 focuses on the relationship between one's self-worth and one's behavior. Lesson 2 deals with appearance and the notion that body characteristics may change one's value as a…