This study examined executive functioning in college aged adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs; n = 84) and non-ACOAs (188). We examined whether characteristics of the family environment and family responsibility in one's family of origin were associated with executive functioning above the contribution of ACOA status. ACOAs reported more…

Evidence indicates that kind of intensive in-home intervention described produces positive changes likely to be maintained in families in which the mother has some self-esteem, a satisfactory relationship with her own mother or a desire for a better relationship, and an adequate social support system. (Author/BEF)

Examined families who decline participation in intervention and assessment components of family-focused prevention projects. Parents (n=459) identified the most important of 28 barriers. Results demonstrate that several time-related factors, logistic requirements, family member influences, and sociodemographic factors were important barriers.…

Using an ecological framework, the various contexts for parenting in Appalachia are discussed. Characteristics of parenting styles, parents themselves, and their children are reviewed. Attention is paid to how family life professionals respond to these characteristics. Suggestions are made for professional cooperation and for parent education.…

Describes a preventive intervention that was randomly offered to a group of (n=67) non- to mildly distressed couples who participated in a larger study on relationships. At nine-month follow-up, couples in which one partner experienced parental divorce demonstrated increased problem intensity, decreased problem-solving ability, and rational…

Examined factors related to the quality of home environments that 83 teenage mothers provided for their 12-month-old infants. Findings show that teens who fostered supportive environments were less depressed and more empathic, had infants who were heavier at birth, received more support from the father, and lived in relatively safe neighborhoods.…

Compared the social support of 92 homeless and 115 permanently housed low-income mothers. Results reveal that homeless mothers had less contact with their friends/relatives, could count on fewer people for help and child care in times of need, and felt their social networks were less helpful than housed mothers. (RJM)