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Mentoring to meet the national need

A mentoring program aims to improve the retention of college students and faculty from historically underrepresented groups. The study suggests that standardized goal-setting and development skills can aid in this process, as well as discussing genealogy to foster a sense of belonging within the discipline.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Social Issues·DateAug 23, 2005

Environment and genetic influences play different roles in boys' and girls' gender-role behavior

Research by King's College London and City University found that shared environments, including prenatal factors and socialization effects, contribute significantly to gender-role behavior in early childhood. The study suggests that environmental influences are more important in shaping behavior than genetic factors during this age group.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 14, 2005

Parents favor counseling over meds for kids' anxiety

A study found that parents' attitudes towards social anxiety disorder treatment can significantly impact their children's benefits from therapy. Parents who had used medication or counseling in the past were more favorable towards these treatments, and those with a history of emotional problems preferred counseling.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateOct 10, 2003

Women smile more than men, except when they are in similar roles

A study by Yale researchers found that women do smile more than men, but the difference is modest and influenced by factors such as culture, ethnicity, age, and social role. When men and women think no one is looking, they smile similarly, and the sex differences disappear when they are in the same position of power or occupation.

SourceYale University·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateMar 18, 2003

Classes may be effective treatment for ADHD patients, parents

A low-intensity behavioral and social skill program showed promise in reducing ADHD symptoms in children and improving parent-child relationships. The study found that parents who participated in the class reported fewer ADHD symptoms in their children and more consistent discipline practices, while teachers saw no significant difference.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateFeb 12, 2003

Evidence for orangutan culture

Researchers discover evidence of culturally transmitted behaviors in orangutans, dating back 14 million years. The findings push back the origins of cultural transmission in apes, suggesting a stronger link to human culture.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateJan 2, 2003

Cocaine-exposed children subject to stereotyping

Recent research suggests that prenatal cocaine exposure does not necessarily lead to developmental delay or behavioral problems in children. In a study of 163 children, assessors incorrectly labeled many as cocaine-exposed, perpetuating stereotypes and stigma, which can undermine cognitive and behavioral development.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateOct 11, 2002

Study shows synthetic pheromone in women’s perfume increases intimate contact with men

Researchers at San Francisco State University found that 74% of women wearing perfume with a synthetic pheromone experienced an increase in sociosexual behaviors, including kissing, affection, and sexual intercourse. The study concluded that the pheromone increased the attractiveness of women to men, leading to more romantic behavior.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateMar 20, 2002

Brain-injured children from stressed or disadvantaged families are more vulnerable to ongoing problems

A new study found that brain-injured children from less stressed and more supportive families had significantly higher achievement and behavior scores than their peers. The authors speculate that severe traumatic brain injury exacerbates the effects of unfavorable family circumstances, leading to worse academic and behavioral outcomes.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalNeuropsychology·DateJan 27, 2002