Attachment theory is based on Bowlby's work on the connections between maternal loss or deprivation and personality development and on Ainsworth's interest in security theory. Their separate and joint work is reviewed, along with that of other theorists and researchers whose work influenced them or was influenced by them. (LB)

Adult play develops curiosity and self-determination, builds knowledge of self and social relationships, builds self-esteem and a sense of personal power, develops powers of concentration, provides foundations for success and competence, and helps one value differences. (AC)

Depicts experiences of two young girls and their coping/growing strategies following father's suicide. Describes hallmarks of meaningful growth and healing as including embracing all confused feelings (guilt, anger, abandonment, embarrassment, sadness, fear of losing surviving parent, and changes). Finds underlying theme of adjustment in…

The reported low incidence of child sexual abuse in Hong Kong is discussed in terms of cultural taboos, low level of awareness among professionals, and cultural attitudes of absolute authority of parents over children. Three case reports reflect the impact of these influences. (DB)

With eighth-grader in White House, America is in for four years of voyeuristically observed adolescence. As Chelsea Clinton and millions of other 12 year olds know, junior high is where real psychological action is. Middle school is cruel, self-conscious culture, replete with rumors, complicated dress codes, and popularity-driven status hierarchy.…

A college senior, who was diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder at age 17, discusses her battle with this chronic illness. Article suggests that young people newly diagnosed with mental illness should be provided with literature and that friends and family should be willing to listen and offer support. (MKA)

Discusses parenting from the perspective of a grandmother. Advocates that parents stay together, provide consistency, be brave enough to parent, resist the messages of consumerism, create and use family time, commit themselves to an attitude of respect for their children, and observe children to understand them. Includes myths about spanking and a…

Asserts that sociocultural assumptions underlying items in the Parental Investment in the Child Questionnaire (PIC) are outdated and gender biased. Reviews the underlying logic of attachment theory and the PIC portrait of appropriate childrearing. Parental investment is shown to be maternal investment. The model provides debatable and unrealistic…

Supports the role of reflective parenting, but claims that reflective parenting is not easy to learn or do. Suggests "Reflection In Action," consistently assessing the current and future effects of parents' words and actions, and "Reflection On Action," considering whether parents' words and actions were the best ones under the…

In this article, the mother of 12-year-old son with autism shares two stories that highlight how her son keeps her humble and how asking for help mutually benefits the giver and receiver. It discusses the need to tell people your needs and to invite them to participate in your life. (CR)

Examines empirical successes of theory of attachment as a secure base relationship, including nature of infant-caregiver and adult-adult relationships. Maintains that researchers need to continually examine the logic and coherence of attachment theory and redress errors of emphasis and analysis. Suggests that the theory be updated in light of…

This article details how the author deals with a student, Kenny, whose performance in school declined because of family problems. The author stresses the roles of a local school principal in the community, as someone who can help, someone with resources and answers and guidance. Despite the many times in which the school principal's judgment is…

In this article, the authors explain how self-concept develops among young children. Several strategies on how to help children attain their full emotional development are also suggested. One such effective strategy is for parents and caregivers to be sensitive to the individual needs of children and to be responsive to them during daily…

In this article, the author discusses the importance of the involvement of fathers, in children's development and performance in school. Children do better in school when their fathers are involved there, regardless of whether their fathers live with them. In both two-parent and single-parent families, the involvement of fathers exerts a distinct…

Play is a powerful avenue for a young child's learning. Child-development and brain-research experts agree that children are active meaning-makers from birth. Babies arrive in this world with the capacity to respond, imitate, initiate, explore, and eventually engage in symbolic processes. Play is young children's natural learning mechanism. Play…