This paper focuses on the ways in which nonparental significant adults affect adolescents' lives. Section 1 provides an overview of the literature regarding nonparental adults and their impact on adolescents. The concentration is on role models and significant adults. Section 2 explores the shift in developmental theory to an interactionist…

Examines research that offers insights from a variety of disciplines and orientations on the importance of social relationships in educational settings. The research indicates that human interaction is a critical factor in the cognitive development and subsequent academic achievement of children. Implications for preservice and inservice teacher…