HEALTH
Barbarin, Oscar A. 1999. “Do Parental Coping, Involvement, Religiosity, and Racial Identity Mediate Children's Psychological Adjustment to Sickle Cell Disease?” Journal of Black Psychology vol. 25, pp. 391-426.
Abstract: Many African
Americans with sickle cell disease (SCD) also experience significant economic
hardship. Yet, few studies of the psychosocial effects of SCD employ designs
robust enough to control socioeconomic factors. This study compares the
functioning of families with SCD to that of healthy controls matched for race
and SES. Child Ss (aged 5-18 yrs) included 77 children with SCD, 28 siblings of
children with SCD, and 74 children who had neither an illness nor siblings with
an illness. A total of 71 parents of SCD children and 50 control parents also
participated in the study. Results show that in general, functioning within SCD
and control families did not differ. However parents granted less autonomy to,
and were less involved in the schooling of children with SCD. Overall, SCD had
a greater impact on children's social and academic competence than on their
emotional functioning. However adolescents with SCD and their siblings were at
greater risk for mental health difficulties than were controls. The more SCD
interfered with living normally, the greater the risk of psychological
dysfunction. Importantly, emotional well-being in parents moderated the adverse
effects of SCD on children. Similarly, racial consciousness, religiosity, and
emotional support enhanced parental coping.
[Source: PI]
Shillinglaw, Regina Dillingham. 1999. “Protective Factors among Adolescents from Violent Families: Why Are Some Youth Exposed to Child Abuse and/or Interparental Violence Less Violent Than Others?” Ph.D. Thesis, University of South Carolina.
Abstract: The transactional
model of development suggests that the development of violent behavior is the
result of reciprocal processes between individual, family, and environmental
variables, some of which increase the probability of violent behavior and some
of which decrease the probability of violent behavior. The purpose of this
study was to identify factors which are associated with less violent behavior
among at-risk adolescents. The risk status of the participants was defined as
being a victim of familial violence, a witness to familial violence, or both.
In addition, the participants were juvenile delinquents which also placed them
at risk for violent behavior. The following protective factors were examined:
flexible temperament, positive mood, positive relationship with a non-parental
adult, empathy, religious beliefs, cognitive ability, positive attitude toward
school, approach-oriented temperament, high self-esteem, internal locus of
control, and prosocial success. Data was obtained from 226 male adolescents
committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice via self-report measures and
file review. An analysis of covariance revealed that the protective factors
which are significantly associated with lower levels of violence were: a withdrawal-oriented
temperament, empathy, religious beliefs, and high self-esteem. Possible
explanation of the findings and implications for future research are
discussed. [Source: PI]
Gustafson, Cynthia Zotalis. 1998. “The Effects of a Health Promotion Program on Parental Attitudes and Behaviors and Adolescent Sexual Well-Being.” Thesis, University of Michigan.
Abstract: Fifty-two parents
and their 35 teens participated in an eight-week church-based health promotion
program designed to strengthen parental attitudes and behaviors that enhance
adolescent sexual well-being. Measures of interpersonal influences of parents
and adolescent sexual well-being of this group were compared with 37 parents
and their 28 teens who did not participate in the program. Teens in the program
increased satisfaction with their own personal sexuality and clarity of
personal sexual values. Families also displayed a trend toward increased
quality of parent-teen communication about sex when compared to families not
participating in the program. These are positive initial effects given the
limited time frame for intervention and measurement of outcomes. Implementation
of the program by the investigator was successfully completed in the religious
communities and is an example of a community-based nursing intervention that
can be tested further as a means to address the health promotion needs of the
parent-teen population. [Source: PI]
Jessor, Richard, Mark S. Turbin, and Frances M. Costa. 1998. “Protective Factors in Adolescent Health Behavior.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology vol. 75, pp. 788-800.
Abstract: The role of
psychosocial protective factors in adolescent health-enhancing
behaviors--healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, good dental hygiene,
and seatbelt use--was investigated among 1,493 Hispanic, White, and Black high
school students in a large, urban school district. Both proximal
(health-related) and distal (conventionality-related) protective factors have
significant positive relations with health-enhancing behavior and with the
development of health-enhancing behavior. In addition, in cross-sectional
analyses, protection was shown to moderate risk. Key proximal protective
factors are value on health, perceived effects of health-compromising behavior,
and parents who model health behavior. Key distal protective factors are
positive orientation to school, friends who model conventional behavior,
involvement in prosocial activities, and church attendance. The findings
suggest the importance of individual differences on a dimension of
conventionality--unconventionality. Strengthening both proximal and distal
protective factors may help to promote healthful behaviors in adolescence. [Source: PI]
Patton, John Douglas. 1998. “Exploring the Relative Outcomes of Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Factors of Order and Entropy in Adolescence: A Longitudinal Study.” Ph.D. Thesis, The University of Chicago.
Abstract: This dissertation
is based on a data from a national sample of 297 adolescents who were among
those participating in the five-year Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Study of Youth
and Social Development. This study investigates change over time in various
entropic and stabilizing factors—both interpersonal and
intrapersonal—and explores their relative contribution to emotional
and physical well being with reference to demographics. Data from interpersonal
measures (family, school, and religious support; and school and family
adversity), intrapersonal measures (the amount of time spent in four
quadrants—flow, relaxation, anxiety and apathy), and outcome measures
(self-esteem, affect, motivation, anger, physical pain, quality of time use,
and the Hope Scale) were collected at three time points between 1992 and 1997.
This study found that low social status, compared to higher social status, was
associated with greater levels of psychic entropy (apathy and anxiety) and
adversity, and lower levels of social support, relaxation, and self- esteem
(but higher affect). This suggests that low social status has serious
implications for the development of adolescents. The study also indicated that
the support of certain social institutions impacts boys and girls differently.
Family support was predictive of positive outcomes for both genders, but school
and religious support seemed to help only boys. Flow proved beneficial for both
genders. The data indicated that low challenge may have a devastating
developmental impact on boys, whereas excessive challenge has the worst
long-term implications for girls.
[Source: DA]
Sawyer, Robin G., Paul J. Pinciaro, and Anne Anderson Sawyer. 1998. “Pregnancy Testing and Counseling-a University Health Center's 5-Year Experience.” Journal of American College Health vol. 46, pp. 221-225.
Villarruel, A. M., L. S. Jemmott, M. Howard, L. Taylor, and E. ddBush. 1998. “Practice What We Preach? Hiv Knowledge, Beliefs, and Behaviors of Adolescents and Adolescent Peer Educators.” Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care vol. 9, pp. 61-72.
Abstract: The purpose of
this article is to (a) describe the knowledge, beliefs, and sexual behaviors of
urban adolescents and adolescent peer educators, and (b) identify elements
needed to design effective HIV/AIDS prevention programs for out-of-school
youth. Thirty-three predominantly African American adolescents (female = 14;
male = 19) between the ages of 14 and 24 in a large urban city including
adolescents (n = 18) and adolescent peer educators (n = 15) participated.
Paper-and-pencil questionnaire and focus-group interviewing methods were used.
Adolescents and adolescent peer educators had a moderately high level of HIV
knowledge, confidence in their ability to use condoms, and beliefs that condom
use would not decrease sexual pleasure or imply infidelity. Both groups reported
low perceptions of susceptibility to HIV infection. Engagement in sexual risk
behavior was low, but was significantly higher among males. Although adolescent
male peer educators engaged in a higher frequency of risk behaviors over time,
they had a lower frequency of sexual risk behaviors in the past 2 months
compared with male adolescents. Study findings showed that HIV prevention
interventions need to include information about specific risk behaviors, such
as using condoms for oral sex, and cleaning drug paraphernalia. Community-based
and church programs, visible HIV prevention messages, specifically those aimed
at increasing perceptions of HIV risk, and the development of condom-use skills
were identified by adolescents and adolescent peer educators as relevant
approaches to reduce HIV infection among this population. [Source: CI]
Wallace, John M., Jr. and Tyrone A. Forman. 1998. “Religion's Role in Promoting Health and Reducing Risk among American Youth.” Health Education and Behavior vol. 25, pp. 721-741.
Abstract: Although past
research has documented religion's salutary impact on adult health-related
behaviors and outcomes, relatively little research has examined the
relationship between religion and adolescent health. This study uses large, nationally
representative samples of high school seniors to examine the relationship
between religious importance, attendance, and affiliation and behaviors that
compromise or enhance adolescents' health (unintentional and intentional
injury, substance use, lifestyle behaviors). Relative to their peers, religious
youth are less likely to engage in behaviors that compromise their health
(e.g., carrying weapons, getting into fights, drinking and driving) and are
more likely to behave in ways that enhance their health (e.g., proper
nutrition, exercise, and rest). Multivariate analyses suggest that these
relationships persist even after controlling for demographic factors, and trend
analyses reveal that they have existed over time. Particularly important is the
finding that religious seniors have been relatively unaffected by past and
recent increases in marijuana use.
[Source: PI]
Ark, Pamela Dale. 1997. “Health Risk Behaviors and Coping Strategies of African- American Sixth Graders.” Ph.d. Thesis, The University of Tennessee Center For the Health Sciences.
Abstract: Children, eleven
to fourteen years, experience times of lifestyle change. Children can develop
health behaviors that could result in illness and premature death. The
reduction of risk behaviors among children, addressed in the Healthy People
2000 (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1990) goals, recommended
education regarding injury prevention, physical activity. and healthy
nutritional choices. Study purposes included: examine height, weight, and blood
pressure measurements; investigate health risk behaviors and coping strategies;
and determine relationships among physiological variables, health behaviors,
and coping strategies. Health behaviors were measured by a version of 1995 CDC
Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), a 70 item survey on unintentional injuries;
tobacco, alcohol, and drug use; dietary behavior; and physical activity. Coping
strategies were measured by Ryan-Wenger's Schoolagers Coping Strategies
Inventory (SCSI), a 26 item survey on frequency and effectiveness of coping
strategies. The conceptual framework guiding the study was Neuman's Systems
Model (1995). Client variables included: physiological: height, weight, and
blood pressure measurements; psychological: coping strategies; sociocultural:
living in proximity to inner city school; developmental: age and gender; and
spiritual: prayer as a coping strategy. The sample was 173 African American
sixth graders, ages 11 to 14, females (n = 98) and males (n = 75), from five inner
city schools with written parental consent. There was no statistical difference
by gender in body mass index. Statistical differences were found by gender with
more males than females reporting physical fighting. Older males than females,
ages 12 and 13, reported tobacco and marijuana use. There was zero reported use
of cocaine and no statistical differences by gender on alcohol, dietary
behaviors, or physical activity. Coping strategies (sample mean was 19.4)
reported more often were prayer (75 percent) and watch television or listen to
music (75 percent). Multiple regression showed interaction effects of
unintentional injuries with gender and SCSI effectiveness scale. There were
statistical differences in means between females and males, ages 12 and 13, suggesting
need for further investigation of coping strategies. Further investigation of
coping strategies among sixth graders and their family in relationship with the
environment is recommended to determine coping strategies of the family unit. [Source: DA]
Neumark Sztainer, Dianne, Mary Story, Simone A. French, and Michael D. Resnick. 1997. “Psychosocial Correlates of Health Compromising Behaviors among Adolescents.” Health Education Research vol. 12, pp. 37-52.
Abstract: Investigated
psychosocial correlates of diverse health-compromising behaviors among
adolescents of different ages. Ss included 123,132 11-21 yr old males and
females in 6th, 9th, and 12th grade. Psychosocial correlates of substance
abuse, delinquency, suicide risk, sexual activity, and unhealthy weight loss
behaviors were examined. Psychosocial variables included emotional well-being,
self-esteem, risk-taking disposition, number of concerns, extracurricular
involvement, religiosity, school connectedness and achievement, physical and sexual
abuse, and family connectedness and structure. Results show that risk-taking
disposition was associated with nearly every behavior across age and gender
groups. Other consistent correlates included sexual abuse and family
connectedness. Correlates of health-compromising behaviors tended to be
consistent across age groups. However, stronger associations were noted between
sexual abuse and substance use for younger adolescents, and risk-taking
disposition and school achievement were stronger correlates for older youth.
Findings suggest the presence of both common and unique etiological factors for
different health-compromising behaviors among youth. [Source: PI]
Wallace, John M., Jr. and David R. Williams. 1997. “Religion and Adolescent Health-Compromising Behavior.” Pp. 444-468 in Health Risks and Developmental Transitions During Adolescence, edited by John Schulenberg and Jennifer L. Maggs. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.
Abstract: (from the chapter)
begin to bridge the gap between research on religion (i.e., attitudes, beliefs,
values, and behaviors concerning things spiritual) and research on adolescent
health outcomes describe the "epidemiology" of religion among
American youth discuss the relative neglect of religion by researchers
interested in adolescent health review, selectively, empirical research on the
relationship between religion and the 2 potentially health-compromising
behaviors in which American youth are most likely to engage--precocious sexual
involvement and the use of licit and illicit drugs discuss problems and
limitations in the extant research on religion and adolescent health outcomes
concludes with the discussion of a conceptual framework. [Source: PI]
Chandy, Joseph M., Robert W. Blum, and Michael D. Resnick. 1996a. “Female Adolescents with a History of Sexual Abuse: Risk Outcome and Protective Factors.” Journal of Interpersonal Violence vol. 11, pp. 503-518.
Abstract: Examined the
school performance, suicidal involvement, disordered eating behaviors,
pregnancy risk, and chemical use of 1,011 female teenagers with a history of
sexual abuse and a comparison group of 1,011 female teenagers without a
background of abuse. Results show that abused Ss had higher rates of these adverse
outcomes than nonabused Ss. Among abused Ss, protective factors against adverse
outcome included a higher degree of religiosity, perceived health, caring from
adults, living with both biological parents, and the presence of a clinic or
nurse at school. Risk factors that increased the likelihood of adverse outcome
included perceived substance use in school, mothers' use of alcohol, family
stressor events during the past year, and worry about sexual coercion. [Source: PI]
Chandy, Joseph M., Robert W. Blum, and Michael D. Resnick. 1996b. “History of Sexual Abuse and Parental Alcohol Misuse: Risk, Outcomes and Protective Factors in Adolescents.” Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal vol. 13, pp. 411-432.
Abstract: Examined the
factors of school performance, suicidal involvement, disordered eating
behaviors, pregnancy risk, and chemical use among 1,959 teenagers with a
history of sexual abuse or parental alcohol misuse. It was found that Ss had
higher rates of adverse outcomes than among a comparison group of teenagers
without such background risk factors. Adolescents with dual-risk background
reported higher levels of suicide risk, disordered eating, sexual behaviors,
and chemical abuse than did Ss with only one background risk factor. Among
index group members, protective factors against adverse outcomes included a
high degree of religiosity and the ability to discuss problems with family or
friends. Risk factors that increased the likelihood of adverse outcomes
included depression, perceived substance use in school, and worries about
family financial security. [Source: PI]
Hopkins, Gary Lee. 1996. “An Aids Risk Appraisal of Students Attending Seventh-Day Adventist High Schools in the United States and Canada.” Ph.d. Thesis, Loma Linda University.
Abstract: Since its first
recognition in 1981, the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) has become a
global disease of increasing prevalence. Because there is no current cure or
vaccination available to effectively prevent AIDS, health education has become
an important method of reducing the transmission of the human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV) which is known to cause AIDS. A substantial amount of research has
been conducted in public high schools aimed at identifying determinants of
students AIDS-risk behaviors. With the exception of one study conducted by
Ludescher (1992), theory based AIDS- behavioral research in Christian student
populations have not been reported. In the present study, 1,748 students
attending 69 Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) four-year high schools completed a
self-administered questionnaire designed to assess (1) the HIV/AIDS-related
behaviors of substance use and sexual intercourse before marriage and the
determinants of these two risk behaviors based on the theory of planned behavior
(TPB) (Ajzen, 1989), and (2) HIV/AIDS related attitudes, normative beliefs, and
perceived control in a sample of SDA high school students based on the TPB. A
substantial number of research participants reported prior sexual and drug use
behaviors. The rates of both of these behaviors were lower in SDA than in
non-SDA respondents. Those students who reported that their parent(s) used
either tobacco, alcohol, or marijuana demonstrated higher rates of past sexual
intercourse and substance use than those students who reported that their
parent(s) were not users of any of the three substances. Using multiple
regression analysis, the best predictor of the respondents intention to have
sexual intercourse before marriage their perceived control over this behavior.
Further, the cognitive underpinnings that best predicted the students perceived
control regarding sexual intercourse before marriage were spiritual strength
and encouragement from their teachers. Useful conclusions drawn from this
research were not that a certain proportion of SDA youth engaged in sexual
behaviors or substance use, but were rather that SDA youth are not immune or
exempt from engaging in behaviors that place them at risk for unintended
pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS. Also, some of the
cognitive underpinnings of the student's attitudes, subjective norms, and
perceived control as they relate to sexual intercourse have now been
identified. Educators can now act by creatively designing strategies that when
implemented may serve to reduce the consequences of the acts studied. The
Office of Education of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists
might consider a continuous assessment based on behavioral theory that would
further clarify determinants of health risk behaviors in their student
population in the future. An analysis such as this would allow for quick
corrective interventions when indicated.
[Source: DA]
Bennet, T., D.A. Deleuca, and R.W. Allen. 1995. “Religion and Children with Disabilities.” Journal of Religion and Health vol. 34, pp. 301-312.
Emmons, Lillian. 1994. “Predisposing Factors Differentiating Adolescent Dieters and Nondieters.” Journal of the American Dietetic Association vol. 94, p. 725.
Abstract: Examines whether
certain biological, socio-cultural and psychological factors differentiate
dieters from non-dieting adolescents. Research design; High-school seniors as
subjects; Comparison of dieters and nondieters using weights, parental weights,
birth order, socioeconomic status, religion affiliation, self-esteem scores and
other psychological factors. [Source:
AS]
Kuczmarski, R. J., J. J. B. Anderson, and G. G. Koch. 1994. “Correlates of Blood-Pressure in 7th-Day-Adventist (Sda) and Non-Sda Adolescents.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition vol. 13, pp. 165-173.
Abstract: Objective: This
comparative study was designed to discover early determinants of systolic (S)
and diastolic (D) blood pressure (BP) elevations in 138 Seventh-Day Adventist
(SDA) and 89 non-SDA male and female adolescents (median age, 17 years) living
at three residential secondary schools in North Carolina. Methods: Measurements
were made of blood pressure, body weight, and height, and information was
collected on lifestyle factors, dietary intake, and other behaviors, including
exercise, religiosity, Type A behavior, and anger, by questionnaire. Multiple
stepwise regression analyses were performed with BP, either SBP or DBP, as the
independent variable. Results: A significant direct association was found only
between body weight and BP, but weak associations were shown between BP and
other variables, including exercise, diet, religiosity, Type A behavior, and
anger. Male and female SDA students showed significantly higher SBPs and DBPs
than did non-SDA adolescents though the differences were small (approximately 5
mm for each sex). Conclusions: These findings suggest that the higher BP values
of SDA adolescents, who were all practicing lacto-ovo-vegetarians, compared to
similarly aged health-conscious non-SDAs, are determined more by eating
behaviors that contribute to gains in body weight than by any other lifestyle
variable. Furthermore, these data support the notion that the BP-protective
effects of the vegetarian diet may not emerge in these SDA youth until early
adulthood. [Source: SC]
Ruiz Ruiz, M., J. M. Pena Andreu, and G. Jimenez Lerida. 1993. “Family Ecological Factors and Attitudes Towards Physical Illness.” European Journal of Psychiatry vol. 7, pp. 197-201.
Abstract: Examines the
significance of family ecological factors in determining attitudes toward
physical illness among 100 adolescents ages 16-18 with similar economic,
cultural, & environmental characteristics, based on scale data. Statistical
analysis shows a significant relationship between familial characteristics
& the development of attitudes toward physical illness. Specifically:
cohesion, level of conflict, & degree of familial autonomy condition the
teenager's attitude toward preventive behavior against illness; autonomy, achievement,
morality-religiousness, & degree of control in the family group define the
quality of mechanisms that an adolescent uses to cope with physical
disease. [Source: SA]
Ludescher, Gerd. 1992. “Aids-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors in Adolescents Attending Seventh-Day Adventist Schools in California.” Dr. P.H. Thesis, Loma Linda University.
Abstract: Since it was first
recognized in 1981, the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) has become a
pandemic disease. Because public education has being recognized as the most
effective means to fight the spread of AIDS, there has been an increasing
assessment of AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in adolescents
at the local, state, and national level. These studies, however, have been conducted
almost exclusively in public schools. Data from private Christian high schools
have been rarely gathered or analyzed separately. Such studies are (except for
drug use) largely non-existent for Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) schools. In the
present study, 488 adolescents grades 9 through 12, attending SDA-academies
throughout California participated and returned a mailed self-administered
questionnaire anonymously. The students belonged to a random cluster sample of
225 SDA churches. The questionnaire assessed AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes,
and behaviors; some of their family-, church- , and school-related
determinants; and social desirability response tendency (SDRT) of the study
participants. AIDS-related findings were compared with the 1990/1991 data of
the statewide Youth Risk Behavior Survey in public schools. A significant
number of participants reported involvement in drug use and/or sexual
intercourse. Occurrence, however, was consistently and markedly lower than in
students from public schools. AIDS knowledge and attitude scores were
substantially higher in students from SDA-schools. Family-related determinants
showed a statistically significant protective effect against drug use and
sexual intercourse in contrast to church and school-related factors. As opposed
to sexual activities, drug use was reported more frequently by students with
low SDRT. Findings indicate that youth in SDA-schools are not immune to drug
use and premarital sex. The study suggests a broad approach of early, continuous,
and mandated AIDS education in school as well as significant family life
programs. Regular and comprehensive youth risk behavior surveys to monitor
changes, take corrective actions if necessary, and allow comparison with public
schools are also recommended. Finally, further research about the impact of
"safe sex" and "abstinence only" curricula on student
behavior is encouraged. [Source: DA]
Boyer, Cherrie B. and Susan M. Kegeles. 1991. “Aids Risk and Prevention among Adolescents.” Social Science and Medicine vol. 33, pp. 11-23.
Abstract: Although
adolescents currently account for only 1% of the reported cases of AIDS
(acquired immune deficiency syndrome) in the US, the % of those infected with
the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is undoubtedly much greater. Adolescents
are at increased risk of HIV transmission because of their behavioral
lifestyle, including unprotected sexual activity, multiple sexual partners,
& intravenous drug use; inner-city minority teenagers, youth in detention
facilities, & street youth are at particular risk. It is argued that
prevention programs emphasizing cognitive & behavioral skills training are
essential to limit further spread of the HIV-AIDS epidemic. The AIDS Risk
Reduction Model, an example of such a social-physiological program, identifies
three stages necessary to reduce risky sexual activities: (1) recognizing that
one's activities make one vulnerable to contracting HIV; (2) deciding to alter
these behaviors & implementing that decision; & (3) overcoming barriers
to enacting the decision, eg, problems in sexual communication & seeking
help when necessary. To reach all adolescents, it is recommended that HIV
prevention programs be age-appropriate & sensitive to cultural values,
religious beliefs, sex roles, & adolescent group customs. [Source: SA]
Persinger, M. A. 1991. “Preadolescent Religious Experience Enhances Temporal Lobe Signs in Normal Young Adults.” Perceptual and Motor Skills vol. 72, pp. 453-454.
Abstract: Compared responses
to a personal philosophy inventory by 174 university students who indicated
that their first religious experience had occurred before they were teenagers
and 694 students who denied such an experience. Results support the hypothesis
that earlier onset of limbic lability is associated with subjective experiences
infused with more affect and meaningfulness.
[Source: PI]
Spilka, Bernard, William J. Zwartjes, and Georgia M. Zwartjes. 1991. “The Role of Religion in Coping with Childhood Cancer.” Pastoral Psychology vol. 39, pp. 295-304.
Abstract: Examined the role
of religion in the crisis of childhood cancer through interviews with 259
members of 118 families that had a child with cancer. 66 patients (mean age
15.1 yrs), 112 mothers, and 81 fathers completed interviews. Measures of family
and patient religiosity were related to a broad spectrum of parental and
patient perceptions and activities. Religion related positively to familial
support of the patient and to efforts to keep school performance at pre-illness
levels. As religious commitment increased following diagnosis, there were signs
of a narrowing of the family's social field. At the same time, relationships
with close friends may be strengthening. Religion appeared to act as a
protective-defensive system that motivated efforts by family members to cope
constructively with the crisis of illness.
[Source: PI]
Weisner, T.S., L. Beizer, and L. Stolze. 1991. “Religion and Families of Children with Developmental Delays.” American Journal of Mental Retardation vol. 95, pp. 647-662.
Antosz, Lawrence J. 1990. “Religiosity, Identity Development, and Health Outcomes in a Late Adolescent Sample.” Ph.d. Thesis, Michigan State University.
Abstract: The current study
(N = 440) attempted to replicate and extend the findings of a previous study by
this author on the role of religion in coping with stress in a late adolescent
sample. That study suggested that religion, particularly personal religious
beliefs and prayer, may help late adolescents cope with the stresses associated
with their developmental period by selectively influencing their perceptions of
minor daily events. The current research investigated whether this relationship
between religion and the perception of minor daily events was in turn related
to physical and mental health outcomes. Several hypotheses were made about the
indirect and direct relationship of specific religious variables with health
measures. Correlational and path analyses failed to support many of the
hypotheses. Only some small positive, as well as negative, direct links between
religion and health outcomes were found. In general, the results for this
sample of late adolescents were consistent with the findings in the literature
for adult samples that religion has a positive but small relationship to measures
of well-being. Additional analyses uncovered some information about the
relationship of religion to general identity development as well as pointing to
some of the components of religion that seem to be particularly salient for
this age group. Based on this sample, it appears that there are important
gender differences in the structure and function of religion. For this sample,
religion seemed to be closely associated with the Foreclosure identity status
for males, while it related to the Achievement status for females. For both
males and females of this age group, the personal meaning that is associated
with religious belief and commitment appears to be the crucial element in
religion. In particular for females, the social aspects of religious involvement
seem to be important. Finally, this study provided further psychometric support
for the religiosity measure developed by this author in a previous study. [Source: DA]
Coisman, Frederick G. 1990. “Adolescent Depression and Eating Disorders.” Journal of Psychology and Christianity vol. 9, pp. 72-80.
Abstract: Examines
definitions of anorexia nervosa and bulimia with their relationship to clinical
depression. A partial review includes the literature regarding the diagnostic
controversy surrounding anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and depression; belief
systems of those with these disorders; and treatment approaches. It is
concluded that eating disorders may be highly correlated with depression but
that causality may be apparent in few cases. Treatment has been effective when
it has targeted the whole person including eating behavior, cognitive
distortions, affect, and depression when present. Implications for Christian
researchers and therapists are discussed.
[Source: PI]
Mahaffey, Barbara. 1990. “The Influence of Family Environment on Diabetic Adjustment and Metabolic Control in Diabetic Adolescents.” M.SC. Thesis, University of Alberta (Canada).
Abstract: Juvenile diabetes
mellitus is a chronic illness which has considerable impact on adolescents with
diabetes and their families. This study examined the relationship between
diabetic adjustment, family environment and metabolic control. There was a
positive and statistically significant relationship between one aspect of
diabetic adjustment and metabolic control. Thus, adolescents who had better
attitudes to diabetes had better levels of metabolic control. The relationship
between diabetic adjustment and social support was such that the more support
the parents received from their spouse and children, the better the
adolescent's diabetic adjustment. The most important informal sources of
support identified were the family. The relationship between metabolic control
and social support was such that increased levels of support to the parents was
associated with poorer levels of adolescent metabolic control. Social support
was represented by four sources: relatives and friends, groups, religion, media
and one kind of support, altruistic support. These results suggest that social
support may have been used by the parents as a coping strategy. [Source: DA]
McKaig, Charlene S. 1989. “The Relationships among Adolescent Future Time Perspective, Self-Esteem and Present Health Behavior.” Ed.D. Thesis, State University of New York At Buffalo.
Abstract: The purpose of
this research was to examine the relationship of adolescent health behavior to
future time perspective, self-esteem, and the demographic characteristics of
gender, race, age, grade in school, socioeconomic status, and religion. The
health promotion model was used as the organizing framework. Four instruments
were used to measure the variables: the Teen Wellness Check measured health
behavior, the dependent variable; the Coopersmith Self-esteem Inventory; the
Future Time Perspective Inventory; and a short questionnaire eliciting
information about religion, church attendance, and parents' education and
occupation. In addition, parent questionnaires were completed by 18 parents to
compare their responses on selected health behavior items with their adolescents'
responses. A sample of 303 adolescents were surveyed from three different high
schools in one public city school system in the Southeastern United States. The
majority (64.4%) of the sample was in middle adolescence, 15 and 16 years old
and in the 9th grade (69.6%). More than half were female (59.7%). The
adolescents were predominantly Black (95.7%) and came from families where the
mothers (92.6%) and fathers (89.9%) had a high school education or less. Two
hundred sixty-one subjects (86.7%) identified themselves as Protestants and 194
(64.7%) said they attended a church once a week or more. Multiple regression
analyses resulted in three variables being mildly predictive (17.9% of the
variance at p $leq$.05) of positive health behavior: high self-esteem, church
attendance weekly or more often, and a father with less than a high school
education. Self-esteem accounted for over one third (38.1%) of the variance. A
longer future time perspective, although weakly correlated (r = $-$0.19), was
not predictive of positive health behavior. Future recommendations include
expanding the research to include a more heterogeneous sample, adolescents in
each developmental category, and adolescents from a variety of identified
family constellations. Another recommendation is to continue to evaluate
instrumentation to gather data about the multiple factors that influence
adolescent health behavior. [Source:
DA]
Gordon, Samuel A. 1988. “The Impact of Adolescent and Maternal Religiousness on the Psychological Functioning of Chronically Ill Adolescents.” Thesis, University of Maryland, College Park.
Watson, Charles G., Teresa Kucala, Victor Manifold, Mark Juba, and et al. 1988. “The Relationship of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder to Adolescent Illegal Activities, Drinking, and Employment.” Journal of Clinical Psychology vol. 44, pp. 592-598.
Abstract: Compared the
self-reported incidences of adolescent legal problems, drinking, employment,
and church attendance in 116 male psychiatric patients with and without posttraumatic
stress disorder (PTSD) and in 28 normal controls. Data raise doubts about the
validity of the theory that PTSD is at least partially a result of pretraumatic
personality maladjustment. [Source: PI]
McGrath, Eileen Agnes. 1987. “Supportive or Non-Supportive Religious Beliefs of Children with Life-Threatening Diseases.” Ph.D. Thesis, New York University.
Abstract: Problem. The
purpose of this researcher was to investigate the relationship between
religious beliefs, religious backgrounds, and the supportive effect of those on
the attitudes toward sickness and death of children with diagnosed
life-threatening disease. Procedure. Through the use of a semi-structured
interview, this descriptive study involved an individual analysis of the
content of religious beliefs held by children with life-threatening diseases.
There were thirteen boys and twelve girls in the sample, aged nine to twelve,
eleven diagnosed with acute lymphocytic or lymphoblastic leukemia, nine with
other neoplasms, four with cystic fibrosis, and one child with Coolies anemia.
The children were affiliated with various Protestant and Catholic faiths. The
Graebner Child Concept of God Inventory, consisting of twenty-two pictures and
accompanying questions, was the instrument used by the investigator to assess
the children's religious beliefs. The children's responses were tape-recorded
verbatim and written by the researcher. The children answered the standardized
questions and stated whether the designated concepts of God were supportive or
non-supportive to them. The children's answer sheet and tapes were analyzed by
the researcher and were also reviewed by a consultant of that child's religion.
The parents completed a fourteen-item questionnaire which included the
religious background, church attendance, and the child's and sibling's medical
history. Findings. It was determined that all the children in this sample had
religious beliefs, and for the majority of the children, these beliefs had a
supportive effect upon their attitudes toward sickness and death. Seven
children stated that one or two concepts of God were not supportive to them,
although their overall responses indicated that they held supportive religious
beliefs. It could not be concluded if a relationship existed among the religious
affiliation, formal years or type of religious education, the children's age,
sex, or indication of intelligence, and their supportive or non-supportive
beliefs. Parental attitudes and beliefs toward religion and church attendance
appeared to have an influence on the child and siblings. Most participants
expressed a deep faith and trust in God who was supporting them throughout
their illness. Parental attitudes toward the treatment and disease outcome also
influenced the child. [Source: DA]
Tucker, Larry A. 1987. “Television, Teenagers, and Health.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence vol. 16, pp. 415-425.
Abstract: The effect of TV
viewing on adolescents' health-related attitudes & practices & physical
fitness level is investigated using data from questionnaires containing
multiple assessment instruments completed by 406 white, Mc, high school Ms.
Multiple discriminant analysis reveals that high levels of TV watching are
significantly associated with poorer physical & emotional health, increased
drug & alcohol use, & decreased church attendance, exercise,
self-control, self-confidence, & Coll aspirations. Though the
directionality of causality cannot be assumed, it is argued that since TV
viewing is a passive pastime, the media has great power to shape attitudes
& behaviors. At present, its messages largely promote antisocial norms
& unhealthy lifestyles. Suggestions are proposed to help health
professionals & other specialists develop & promote more healthy,
constructive uses of TV. [Source: SA]
Hanson, Shirley M. 1986. “Healthy Single Parent Families.” Family Relations: Journal of Applied Family and Child Studies vol. 35, pp. 125-132.
Abstract: Assessed the
characteristics of 42 healthy single-parent families. A total of 84 Ss--the
parent (mean age 41.6 yrs) and a target child (mean age 14.1
yrs)--participated. The variables included socioeconomic status (SES), social
support, communication, religiousness, problem solving, and the physical and
mental health status of single parents and their children. The effects of the
sex of custodial parents and the custody arrangements on health outcomes were
also analyzed. A multimethod, multivariable approach was used. Data collection
procedures included 6 questionnaires (e.g., Family Environment Scale, Family
Interaction Schedule) and an interview in the home setting. Single parents and
their children reported fairly high levels of both physical and mental health.
Communication, social support, SES, religiousness, and problem solving were
also correlated with the mental and physical health of parents and
children. [Source: PI]
Newell Withrow, Cora. 1986. “Identifying Health-Seeking Behaviors: A Study of Adolescents.” Adolescence vol. 21, pp. 641-658.
Abstract: Investigated how
354 female and 393 male adolescents' health-seeking behaviors, which include
self-management and information-seeking behaviors, differed according to age,
race, socioeconomic status (SES), gender, and religion. The study was based on
2 assumptions: (1) self-management and information-seeking behaviors are
fundamental to adolescents' health-seeking behaviors, and (b) Ss answer
self-management and information-seeking questions in terms of past behaviors
and their behavioral intent. A 142-item questionnaire was administered.
Findings included confirmation of (a) gender as a differentiating variable for
the performance of information-seeking behavior, and (b) positive health
behaviors among Black adolescents. Ss reported an overall positive composite of
health-seeking behaviors. [Source: PI]
Silber, Tomas J. and Mary Reilly. 1985. “Spiritual and Religious Concerns of the Hospitalized Adolescent.” Adolescence vol. 20, pp. 217-224.
Abstract: 114 hospitalized
11-29 yr olds completed a Likert scale questionnaire on spiritual and religious
concerns. ANOVA was performed to correlate responses with sex, race, religion,
type of school, and severity of illness. A subgroup of Ss, those with more
serious disease, experienced intensified spiritual and religious concerns.
Religious concerns were more frequent among Blacks than Whites, Catholics than
Protestants, and parochial school students than public school students. In
response to the questionnaire, over 15% of the Ss requested further help.
Findings suggest that training in adolescent health care and the provision of
services to teenagers ought to include teaching in the area of spiritual and
religious values of teenagers, with emphasis on the hospitalized
adolescent. [Source: PI]
Critchfield, Arthur Barry. 1982. “Religious Achievement of Hearing Impaired Youth in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.” Ph.d. Thesis, Brigham Young University.
Abstract: The purpose of
this study was to assess the religious achievement levels of hearing impaired
youth in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in comparison with
that of other youth in the same Church. A test of L.D.S. religious knowledge
was developed and comparable groups of 72 deaf and 77 non-deaf subjects were
evaluated as to their knowledge of basic Church doctrine. Deaf subjects'
responses were evaluated to assess what factors lead to improved scores of
religious knowledge. Results of the study indicated that hearing impaired youth
scored significantly lower on the test of religious knowledge than similar
non-hearing impaired young people. Recommendations for improved programming and
service delivery were made. [Source:
DA]
Insel, Paul M., Gary E. Fraser, Roland Phillips, and Phyllis Williams. 1981. “Psychosocial Factors and Blood Pressure in Children.” Journal of Psychosomatic Research vol. 25, pp. 505-511.
Abstract: 1,567 10-26 yr old
children attending Seventh-Day Adventist or public schools completed the Type A
Activity Scale, Family Climate Inventory, Eysenck Personality Questionnaire,
Symptom Distress Checklist, and Adjective Check List. Blood pressure data were
also obtained. Results suggest important associations between blood pressure
and an adolescent life-style that emphasizes control, ambition,
competitiveness, order and organization, religious orientation, and strong
pressures to achieve. Seventh-Day Adventist compared to public school Ss
strongly emphasized religious orientation and family control. [Source: PI]
Remmers, H and B Shimberg. 1949. “Problems of High School Youth. (Purdue Opinion Poll for Young People. Rep. No. 21.).” Purdue University.
Abstract: A 300-item Problem
Checklist was administered to 15,000 high school students in all sections of
the U. S. Problem areas covered were (1) school, (2) vocational, (3) personal,
(4) social, (5) family, (6) sex, (7) health, (8) general. Methodology and
overall results are discussed briefly. Tables are included showing what
percentage of students in various sub-groups checked each item. These include
breakdowns for (1) total group, (2) sex, (3) school grade, (4) region of U. S.,
(5) size of community, (6) religion, and (7) family income level. The analysis
was based on a stratified sample of 2500 signed questionnaires. The authors
compared matched samples of signed and unsigned questionnaires and found that
while the unsigned questionnaires yielded slightly higher percentages on nearly
all items, the results obtained from both samples were essentially the
same. [Source: PI]