The report presents a descriptive analysis of nonmedical drug use over a six-year period among college students enrolled in selected health science classes at five American universities. (Author/MJB)

The authors report on a study designed to assess teachers' attitudes toward the use of Ritalin in the treatment of hyperkinesis in school children. Overall, the attitudes of teachers are cautiously favorable. Although teachers commonly have experience with a pupil using Ritalin, specific and accurate information about the drug is uncommon. (RP)

A survey examined characteristics of secondary educators in Texas teaching health education. Teachers with more preparation in health education were more confident and competent educators. Less than half had degrees in health education, and 10% had no academic background in health education. Most believed health education was as important as other…

Background: Research on adolescent mental health suggests that prevalence rates for depressed mood are not uniformly distributed across all populations. This study examined demographic difference in depressed mood among a nationally representative sample of high school adolescents. Methods: The 2003 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey was utilized…

This paper examined changes in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related risk behaviors among high school students in the United States during 1991-2005. Data from 8 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys conducted during that period were analyzed. During 1991-2005, the percentage of US high school students engaging in HIV-related sexual risk…

Schools are being called upon to help address asthma, a common problem in school- aged children. School-based asthma programs need information about asthma diagnoses, asthma symptoms, and asthma's impact on school attendance. Parent or student surveys are the most common method of collecting these data. However, medical literature offers little…

The data reported are part of a larger investigation of the dimensions and correlates of cigarette smoking behavior among Indianapolis school children. Each subject completed an anonymous questionnaire administered by class teachers. The results are presented in tables. (Author)

The results of a survey of sex education" programs in Kansas indicate that despite the current controversy over this topic, there are increasing numbers of school districts in the process of initiating, developing or expanding programs of human growth and development, family life and sex education." (Author)

This paper discusses the importance of studying physical growth patterns in children and presents the results of a survey of height and weight measurements collected on 1,953 children ages 5-11. The need for behavior changes and the part played by education in this process is outlined. (JMF)

A survey of New York City's public high school students examined violence-related attitudes and behaviors. Results indicated violent behaviors and weapon-carrying among youth were substantial problems in school and community settings. The survey suggested that violent behaviors reflected students' personal attitudes and attitudes students…

The purpose of this study was to examine Ohio parents' perceptions of the role of elementary schools in preventing childhood overweight. In the United States, overweight is the most widespread health threat facing children and adolescents. Schools may be a useful point of intervention in addressing the escalating prevalence of childhood overweight…

This study provides information about prevention and control practices in intervention and comparison secondary schools 2 years after the start-up of the Texas Tobacco Prevention Initiative. The intervention, which was funded through the Texas Department of State Health Services, consisted of guidance, training, technical assistance, and…