Preview

PDF (Whole thesis) whole_WoolleyLy...pdf | Download (3MB) Available under University of Tasmania Standard License. | Preview

Abstract

This thesis evaluates one technique in the primary preventive
approach to mental health. The need for primary prevention is discussed
in relation to current manpower shortages in dealings with
the rising incidence of psychological disturbances.
It is argued that the Human Relations Movement, which is based
on humanistic principles and procedures has much to offer in the
reduction of student vulnerability to social-emotional disturbances.
One programme derived from this movement, the Human Development Programme
(H.D.P.) (Bessell and Palomares, 1973) is a group-based technique
designed for use with high school students. The short-term
effectiveness of this programme in a local high school is assessed in
relation to a number of adjustment-related variables: anxiety, self-esteem,
peer-rated social competence, classroom dissatisfaction and
teacher ratings of maladjustment.
The study employs a three-group design with one group receiving
the H.D.P. A second group, serving as a placebo condition,
receives a comparable group experience to the H.D.P. but excludes as
far as possible, affective components, while the third group (no
treatment) experiences the normal school routine.
The results indicate effectiveness of both the H.D.P. and
placebo procedures on two variables, relative to the no treatment
condition: peer-rated social competence and teacher-rated maladjustment.
Methodological problems associated with the study are considered
and suggestions for future developments are made. In particular,
the need for longitudinal follow-up studies to assess long-term effects
are stressed. It is concluded that the H.D.P. is worthy of further
investigation as a high school based primary preventive technique.

Item Type:	Thesis - Coursework Master
Authors/Creators:	Woolley, Lynette Patricia
Keywords:	Interpersonal relations, High school students, Developmental psychology
Copyright Holders:	The Author
Copyright Information:	Copyright 1977 the Author - The University is continuing to endeavour to trace the copyright owner(s) and in the meantime this item has been reproduced here in good faith. We would be pleased to hear from the copyright owner(s).
Additional Information:	Thesis (M.Psych.) - University of Tasmania, 1977. Bibliography: p. 90-101
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

Actions (login required)

Item Control Page