Parents of children with disabilities must maintain a fine balance between protecting their child from thoughtless cruelty and discrimination and teaching their child to deal with such actions. Parents should quickly end any cruel actions toward the child, be open about the disability's nature, and talk to parents of the child's peers. (CB)

Children who have reading disabilities are prone to become emotionally maladjusted due to the humiliation of poor reading ability and the anxiety over gaining peer approval. Adding to the child's problems are negative parental reactions. Suggestions for remedies are given. (JN)

The competitive structure in which most children are taught to play is responsible for problems associated with stress. Athletic performance is important in how the child is perceived by peers and adults. Children who perceive themselves as inadequate at sports often feel low self-confidence and low self-esteem. (JN)

This paper presents a flowsheet model describing the interpersonal process of adolescent identity formation in relation to peers and peer groups within a social-psychological context. The model describes a primary route, a secondary route, and a vicious circle as pathways toward identity formation in relation to peers and peer groups. In the…

This article discusses the importance of membership in the inclusive education of students who are deaf/hard-of-hearing (D/HH). To facilitate membership, inclusive programs are urged to address carefully teacher attitudes, teacher roles and relationships, student knowledge and curriculum, structural barriers, extracurricular activities, community…

Argues that the school community must create and adhere to policies and practices that respect and support positive peer relationships. Urges promoting a respect for diversity in terms of individuals, as well as providing opportunities for peer affiliation on activity-based and interest-based levels to promote pluralism. (SD)