Background: A mismatch between organizational priorities and system-level policies can negatively impact implementation and sustainment of classroom-based physical activity (PA) interventions. The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) present methods to systematically identify organization- and system-level implementation barriers, and (2) align…

The nation's public schools can systematically promote the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for good health. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services contracted to evaluate the School Health Curriculum Project and three other approaches. The design, implementation, and benefits of the School Health Education Evaluation (SHEE) are…

The School Health Education Evaluation (SHEE) was used to review the School Health Curriculum Project and three other curricula: Project Prevention, 3 Rs and High Blood Pressure, and Health Education Curriculum Guide. The four curricula are described and the process that led to their selection for SHEE is highlighted. (Author/MT)

To accurately assess the health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of students in fourth-seventh grades, the staff of the School Health Education Evaluation project found development of a new instrument necessary. The philosophic orientation and detailed processes followed in developing a noncurriculum specific, psychometrically sound evaluation…

This study examined the effects of a bogus objective measure (bogus pipeline) on self-reports of experimentation, frequency, intentions, beliefs, and attitudes related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use of 191 youths aged 10 to 16. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

Analysis of questionnaire responses of 112 males between the ages of 10 and 14 revealed intention to use smokeless tobacco correlated significantly with attitude toward the behavior and perceived social pressure. Significant differences between those who intended to use smokeless tobacco and those who did not were found on several outcome and…

A study examined an assumption commonly held by many smoking prevention programs that social skills can affect the onset of tobacco smoking. Data from 129 sixth graders were used to predict smoking behavior 15 months later. Five skill variables emerged as the best predictors of future smoking. (Author/CB)

Self-esteem and health locus of control have been postulated as predictors of attitudes and behaviors related to child health. This study measured the relationship among self-esteem, health locus of control, and health attitudes of 291 Native American fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

To influence children in deciding not to smoke, a program, Wisconsin Athletes Against Cancer, was designed and implemented in grades four through eight. Athletes served as role models and delivered anti-smoking messages. Athlete preparation, the presentation format, and feedback and evaluation methods are discussed. (JN)

Study assessed factors associated with teachers' implementation of health curricula. School representatives implemented one of three smoking prevention curricula in sixth or seventh grades. Experimental teachers received extensive curriculum training. Training significantly related to whether teachers implemented curricula. Variables outside…

Focus group interviews were used to gather information from adolescent participants that could be applied to the design of a smoking prevention program. Various students of low socioeconomic status took part in role plays, auctions, and guided discussions to learn about smoking attitudes. (Author/DF)

TAR WARS is an interactive, anti-tobacco program for fifth graders designed to promote positive health choices by increasing students' awareness of attitudes regarding tobacco use and the effects of tobacco on the body. The program encourages health care provider involvement in community health activities and mobilizes community support against…

Explored sixth graders' sexual behavior and behavior intentions, analyzing health-related risk behaviors and constructs from social support and social cognitive theories based on race and gender regarding their predictive value for students having sexual intercourse. Survey data indicated that very few students had sexual intercourse or other high…

Pilot-testing of a cardiovascular health education curriculum with 218 American Indian and Hispanic fifth graders in rural New Mexico noted significant increases in knowledge about the cardiovascular system, exercise, nutrition, obesity, tobacco use, and habit change, suggesting that the culturally oriented program may help promote a healthy…

A health education curriculum guide designed for nonhandicapped students was used with special education students in Canton, Ohio. The activity-centered curriculum changed the health beliefs and behavior of some children with learning disabilities but was not effective with those whose Intelligence Quotient scores were below 80. (Author/PP)