A model of the grief cycle was developed based on data from studies of the grief process and observations of 130 parents of children with disabilities. The model involves three phases: confronting (including shock, denial, blame/guilt); adjusting (depression, anger, bargaining); and adapting (lifestyle changes, realistic planning, adjusted…

Discusses the ways in which children of different ages respond to divorce or death in the family. Suggests that an open, caring teacher can reach and teach emotionally troubled students by creating an emotional climate for learning. (DMM)

A school counselor recounts the case of a gifted 14-year-old with rheumatoid arthritis and a destructive home situation, to remind teachers that in-school problems have out-of-school roots and that the teacher is not the only professional available to, and concerned with, the well-being of the student. (DB)

A form of melancholia characterized by the negating of a college faculty member's professional motivation, positive attitudinal focus, and personal self-esteem is described. This "professorial melancholia" has three stages: (1) causal factors are beginning to have an effect; (2) progressive influence and noticeable impact; and (3) serious impact…

A gifted boy with a learning disability recounts the difficulties he had in school, the rejection of his peers, a suicide attempt in high school, and his eventual diagnosis with an auditory processing disorder and unipolar depression. Teachers are urged to notice students with similar problems and provide them with needed help. (DB)

Describes characteristic behaviors of preschoolers, early and later latency children, and adolescents experiencing the effects of divorce. Suggests ways that teachers should respond to these behaviors, stressing the importance of sensitivity and communication. Delineates six developmental tasks faced by children when dealing with divorce. (DMM)

This article addresses the preparation of teachers concerning their legal responsibilities when school-age children threaten or attempt suicide. Court-determined responsibilities of teachers are identified, and implications for teachers (such as understanding school policy and careful documentation and reporting of relevant student behavior) are…

Presents strategies to help teachers cope with personal tragedy. The workplace offers a valuable social network for sharing with colleagues, administrators, and students. Teachers may find the constant schoolday demands leave little time for worry. Specific coping strategies include asking for help, temporarily changing the curriculum, and…

This article on gifted children who have dyslexia or are at risk for school failure focuses on (1) effective individual and group discussion and counseling formats for school settings; and (2) the integration of all services into individualized programs for these children. (DB)

An interview with a specialist in childhood trauma examines such issues as what childhood trauma is, what signs teachers should be on the alert for, what traumatized children have in common, how long the effects of trauma last, when psychiatric help is necessary, and how teachers can help. (SM)

Ways hospitals can promote the psychological and social well being of young patients are explored in this paper. First, the importance of familiarizing the child with the hospital is emphasized. Second, emotions hospitalized children may feel and the possible causes of those emotions are listed. Third, methods hospital personnel can use to help…

Contends that many violin and viola students develop preferences based on fear of using more difficult fingering techniques. Recommends that students be exposed to advanced techniques earlier in a matter-of-fact approach. Includes a list of four books recommended for further reading. (CFR)

Emotional issues impacting the lives of gifted students are discussed, including peer pressure, competition, perfectionism, independence, expectations of self or others, and economic disadvantage. Teaching suggestions and poems by gifted students are provided. (DB)

Provides information on alcoholism and codependency to help teachers identify and respond to children of alcoholics (COAs). Discusses characteristics of alcoholic homes and problems encountered by children and adult COAs. Examines survival "masks" of COAs, including hero, rebel, adjustor, clown, and caretaker. Lists organizational,…

Argues that white, upper-middle-class adolescents are particularly vulnerable to depression, suicide, alcohol/substance abuse, date rape, anxiety, low self-esteem, and eating disorders. Discusses lack of parental involvement and the difficulties wealthy youth have in developing inner resources. Recommends involving students in service projects and…