Divorced at Age 50's cause Love was fade

If the kids are grown and independent then retirement age arrives, for many couples it's time to enjoy life again means alone together.

But, for the generation of 'baby boom' in particular in the UK, their 50s were followed by the number of petition for divorce.

Surveys in the UK showed that most divorce from couples who are aged over 50 years cause loss of love, intimacy, and sex drive is down between couples, according to the Daily Mail quoted.

The poll showed that 28 percent of the respondents involved stated that they divorced because their spouses are emotionally cold and distant. 25 percent said it had lost sexual interest in their partner.

Some 27 percent of couples have other reasons which are no longer committed to the wedding.

The main reason for the male partner to end was the loss of passionate sex marriage on the couple. A third of male respondents admitted it. As for women, above all, their husbands are now cooler.

In addition, one of the factors that cause 14 percent of divorce's respondents are nagging. Instead, ten percent of respondents said they no longer have the topics to be discussed.

Agency UK statistics reveal that the divorce rate in couples aged over 50 years peaked in 2004 with about 25,000 divorces a year before finally falling to 22,000 divorces.

The experts believe that many couples are still together just to raise their children. When their child has their own and began to rethink their future.

In addition to several reasons earlier, financial factors also affect the marriage because nine percent of respondents said they divorced because the couple no longer able to meet their financial needs. While eight percent said their partner spends too much money.

Another factor is a family problem. Five percent of respondents said they were waiting for their adult children and then divorced again while four percent said that divorce is caused by parents or their in-laws.

The work also could lead to divorce. Eight percent of respondents said the work to make marriage a mess while five percent even suspect that their partner was having an affair with co-workers.

The survey was organized by the 'Saga', a company that specializes products for people over the age of 50 years. The survey involved 1900 respondents aged 50 years or older and have been divorced.

"Many women aged 50 and over begin to see labih many opportunities for them than when they were married," said Christine Northam, a Relate counselor from, an organization that cares about the relationships within the family.

"The longer a couple live together, even the less they know about each other." The scientists drew that conclusion after asking every couple of favorite foods, movies, and favorite kitchen appliances.

In the three questions that couples who have been together for 40 years made the mistake most answers than those who only two years together.

"One possible reason is the older partner is not giving enough attention to each other because they think they have a strong relationship or because they think they already know their partners well," Dr. Benjamin Scheibehenne review of the University of Basel, Switzerland, in the Journal of Consumer Psychology.

antaranews.com

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Talk about Divided Soul

Now has over 100 years since French psychiatrist, Emil Kraepelin, describing mental disorders by Swiss scientist, Paul Eugen Bleuler (1857-1939), named for schizophrenia, but schizophrenia remains mystery.

The word schizophrenia is rooted in Greek, schizein (split) and phren-(mind). In Indonesia, schizophrenia including the most extreme mental disorder sufferers. Ministry of Health through the Health Research Association in 2007 noted, people with extreme mental disorders 0.46 percent of the national population.

Schizophrenia allegedly suffered by 6-19 persons per 1,000 population. If the total Indonesian population of 200 million people, no less than 1.2 million people suffering from schizophrenia.
It took a long time until diagnosis of schizophrenia. For Iman (45), that means 20 years. At that time they was a student of Jakarta Teachers' Training College (now State University of Jakarta). One day, Iman arguing with one of his teachers. Since then, Iman could not even sleep spicing for two days. "I do not accept the opinion of that professor. I attempt to read scripture and listen to sermons in the event of religious pulpit to steady himself, but does not work. I am cranky and irritable, "he said.
Iman relatives bring it to a general practitioner who then referred to a hospital other. "I entered the psychiatric and treated one month," they explained.
Iman continues to take medication. "I wonder why you ought to continue taking medication. Years later, I know that my schizophrenia, "he said. two times missed taking medication, the head of Iman began to hurt. Another time, after reading the Book of Revelation, Iman satisfied they is one of the apostles. they was positive about to be killed.Other signs, delusions or delusions, which is not in accordance with the contents of the mind remain confident despite the fact that it's been shown proof that his thoughts are wrong. Suppose that person believes they is the messenger of God.

Schizophrenia signs are not common. Specialist Doctors Association president Dr Tun Psychiatry Indonesia Kurniasih Bastaman SpKJ say, the signs of schizophrenia include hallucinations, sensory perception is wrong and there is no stimulus, such as hearing voices when no one speaking, seeing things, smelling, tasting, feeling there is a creeping skin that does not exist in point of fact.

So far, it is believed that disorders associated neuro chemical imbalance substance that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. The human brain consists of billions of cells that connect and communicate. Stimulation of a cell will produce a neurotransmitter that will stimulate other cells. One of the neurotransmitter dopamine is active in the area of the brain that acts to regulate emotions or limbic technique.

Luni who live with schizophrenia often see ghosts pocong and dark shadows. they was treated and studied religious discipline, but it remains difficult to eliminate the illusion. "I need to eliminate my fear of seeing a ghost," said Luni, at a gathering of the Community take care of Schizophrenia Indonesia a while ago.

In schizophrenia, the dopamine technique is overactive dopamine release. Now the researchers also saw the production of glutamate. However, it's not been answered fully the causes of schizophrenia.

Tun said, "Schizophrenia associated with the interaction of two factors: factor organo-biological, psycho-educational factors, and socio-cultural factors. Organobiologic factor is genetic factors and mechanisms of brain neurotransmitters, one hypothesis is hiperdopaminergic, "said Tun. Psycho-educational factors related to relatives upbringing, ie hard sister, sister is weak.

Events that do not suppress or evoke a sense of quiet and disappointments in life trigger, such as interpersonal relations (an argument with anybody close), environmental changes (moving a residence), and changes in the economy (bankrupt).

Socio-cultural factor is the norm and value systems in an surroundings where people live who can be a source of stress. Director of Mental Health Services Ministry of Health as well as psychiatric specialists, Irmansyah, argued, several other factors thought to contribute to risk factors, including complications in the course of childbirth, infections in the womb, a history of head trauma, stress, and traumatic experiences and the influence of drug abuse psychotropic (drugs).

Irmansyah said the objective of treatment is to control the signs of schizophrenia, allowing patients to live normal and active in every day activities in the community.

Recovery

"Misunderstanding causes schizophrenia is associated with the occult so that sometimes the patient was taken to" smart people ". When was desperate and the doctors, his condition was more extreme, "said Irmansyah.

The cause is the reluctance of other medication side effects of drugs that affect other systems in the brain that may cause tremors.

Tun asserted, schizophrenia ought to be treated. Patient care in an alternative route or without drugs can not be justified. Scientific information to prove, the more rapid and exact patient treated, the result is better. People with schizophrenia need to be re-socializing. The role of relatives and community post-rehabilitation important to reduce recurrence.

"The relatives and the surroundings need to generate a nice situation for relatives of schizophrenia are not prone disturbed," said Bagus Utomo, whose sister fell ill with schizophrenia. nice with relatives, people with schizophrenia, and observers of Indonesia established the Community take care of Schizophrenia. "So to understand what they experience, they're more wise," they said.

With controlled conditions, those who have recovered can be productive and generate. At this time, Iman became salesman in a pest control company. Social life also improved. they was in a relationship with a woman. Without doubt, Iman explains that they experienced issues, which have been understood.

By Indira Permanasari & Nawa Tunggal
health.kompas.com

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Sholat (Prayer) and the Human Brain

Rasulullah Muhammad SAW said: "Whoever is facing Allah (died), whereas he used to neglect Prayer, God does not care about bit-even his good deeds (which he has done they will be)." Tabrani History Hadith.

We pray that Brain Healthy "So establish regular Prayer because your God and sacrifice!" (QS: Al Kautsar: 2)

A proof that the limitations of the human brain can not know all the secrets of grace, favor, gift given by GOD to him.

Should we wait to get our absurd?

A Doctorate in America (Dr. Fidelma) had embraced Islam because of some miracle that the encounter in his search. He was very impressed with the invention can therefore not be accepted by reasonable minds.

He is a Doctor of Neurology. After embracing Islam he was very confident treatment of Islam and therefore it has opened a clinic called "Medicine Through the Quran" Study of Al-Quran treatment through the use of drugs that are used as found in the Qur'an. Among the fast, honey, black seed (Jadam) and so forth.

When asked how he was attracted to Islam, the Doctor is told that when the nerve studies conducted, there are few nerves in the human brain is not penetrated by blood. Though every inch of the human brain require enough blood to more normal functioning.

After making the assessment that took finally he found that blood will not enter the nerve in the brain but when someone is praying that when prostrate. Uric requires blood for a few moments only. This means that blood will enter the following levels of uric prayer time that is required by Islam. That's the greatness of God's creation.

So he who does not perform prayers then the brain can not receive enough blood to function normally. Therefore, the incidence of this man is really to embrace Islam "fully" because the nature of nature happens it has been linked by God with this beautiful religion.

In conclusion:
God who holds human beings who do not pray even if they function in a normal sense but is actually in what circumstances they will lose consideration in making decisions normally. That's no wonder this man is sometimes not hesitate to do things contrary to the nature of their common occurrence even know who will do these things is not in accordance with their will because the brain is not able to consider In more normal.

So no wonder arise various social phenomena Society today.

Reference: National Geographic 2002 Road to Mecca

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Wudlu (Ablution) Wisdom Research

by Yahdillah
www.ilmupsikologi.com

Wudlu (Ablution) is one of the Islamic Shari'a. Broke Allah commanded the Muslims to cleanse themselves or wudlu, before establishing the five daily prayers. (Surat Al-Ma'idah [5]: 6).

Because, wudlu is one of the conditions of recei pt of worship prayer by God. "God will not accept the prayer someone among you, until he perform wudlu." (Bukhari No. 135, and Muslims No. 224-225).

In general, the purpose of wudlu is to cleanse o urselves from unclean hadats and attached to the body. Like urine, feces, saliva, dogs, pigs, wadzi, alike, and others. Behind the goal, contained a very deep meaning. Wudlu is not just for cleanliness, but also healthy, both physically and psychologically (mental), both physical and spiritual health.

World of medical science has proven efficacy wudlu. Behind the worship that is simple, inexpensive, and easy, even sometimes considered trivial, it contained extraordinary wisdom. Wudlu save many amazing miracles. In fact, how many people who converted to Islam, because Islam teaches cleanliness of worship called wudlu.

Nothing wrong if God requires that the Shari'a wudlu since 14 centuries ago on the Muslims. It contains the wisdom and benefits are very large. In fact, if someone perform and do wudu properly, surely the body will remain healthy and avoid the various attacks of disease. Both the skin disease, asthma, cancer, colds, sinusitis, migraine, scabies, ringworm, and so forth.

World health sciences recognize various methods and prevention of disease. In fact, thousands of years ago, Chinese medical science of acupuncture familiar with the term, namely a method of health by means of needling. There are thousands of points that must be pierced with a finger, if you want to get vibrant health. And do not easily learn the dots, because the number reached 4000-5000 period.

After acupuncture, reflexology treatment appears then, that suppress the body's nerve dots located on the feet and hands. The number of reflection points in the feet and hands it to reach hundreds more.

In 1997, the method of reflection and akunpunktur considered a very complicated method, because of the many points that must be understood and memorize. So, a doctor named Gary Craig, the British, making modifications acupuncture technique that amounted to thousands it to 18 points. He called the theory of acupuncture-style modification is the name of Gary Craig's Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). The technique used for treatment is to knock (tapping).

Then in the 2000s, EFT was developed again by Ahmad Faiz Zainuddin, an alumnus of the University of Airlangga (Airlangga University), Surabaya with the name of Spiritual Emotional Freedom Technique (SEFT). The technique used also by knocking (tapping). And the number of dots that diketok was only 14. Named SEFT because it combines elements of prayer and Thayyibah sentence in this technique.

Command clean themselves or purification ritual, actually also taught in other religions. The Jews also perform wudu (wudlu or similar) and to clean themselves before praying to Allah. Similarly in Christianity and Catholicism. It is written clearly in Exodus, Genesis, Deuteronomy, and others. In fact, the doctrine of the Sabians (Shabiin), namely the followers of Prophet Yahya AS, they also perform wudlu before prayer. Prayers of the Sabian is facing the north pole.

Therefore, the wudlu which is often considered trivial, is actually a Shari'a which should and must be done. Unfortunately, many people do not do it well and properly. In fact, in a number of hadith, Prophet Muhammad ordered Muslims to refine wudhunya. "Perfect wudhumu, for I (Messenger-Red) will recognize you on the Day of Judgement from the former wudhunya."

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Brain gym for Health

liputan6.com, Jakarta: The human brain consists of two parts ie left and right. But most people are relying on left brain. In fact by optimizing the use of all parts, brain function can be optimized. But regrettably not everyone can do so.

To exploit all the potential of the brain, could be a series of movement exercises to stimulate the brain called the Brain Gym or exercise the brain. Brain Gym is a series of exercises based on simple body movements. Motion was made to stimulate the left and right brain.

Brain gym can be done while doing their every day activities and do not require a special time. But still needed the exercise. Usually there's 26 of them brain calisthenics movements cross motion. In this movement of the feet and hands can be propelled to the front or opposite side.

Light movements with the game through the hands and feet could provide the stimulus or stimuli to the brain. Movements that produce a stimulus that can improve alertness, concentration, speed, perception, and also creativity.

In addition to children, brain gymnastics necessary for workers, those who claimed to always think of creative and filled with initiative. While on the elderly, brain gymnastics movements performed regularly will improve the alertness and concentration.

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ISLAM AND PSYCHOSOMATIC MEDICINE

MOHAMMAD AHMAD AND Mrs. NIKHAT AHMAD

India.

www.islamset.com

The most important cause of morbidity today is the stress and strain of life. Not only this, but directly or indirectly the stress and strain of life. Not only this, but directly or indirectly the stress and strains of life are also one of the most important causative factors of cornary artery diseases which stands out as the number on ekiller of mankind today.

"We are born in pain, we die in pain and in between there are pains both psychic and somatic". One cannot avoid stress in life nor can we live without stress. It is essential for the development of human faculties. But excess of it is extremely damaging to the human body. Minimising stress within tolerable limits is the goal of modern physical and psychological therapy.

The present work attempts to analyse how best Islamic practices have contributed to solving the psychological problems and have helped towards a healthier living in a chieving positive health.

Because of the limited space only the commonly practiced methods which minimise stress and bring about relaxation both physcial and mental will be discussed int he light of Islam.

The following methods of relaxation have been selected for the present discussion.

1. MID-DAY NAP

A short mid-day nap (Qailulah) is a Sunnah. The value of this mid-day nap in total body relaxation has been appreciated recently by scientists.

Not only does a mid-day nap give relaxation to the body in day time but it is also very conducive to sleep at right.

Relaxing once during the day is very conducive to total relaxation and sleep - once you crawn into bed for the night (Kerner)

It should be appreciated that insomnia is a "powerful stressor in itself". The Sunnah of short mid-day nap may, therefore, be practiced as a remedy for sleeplessness.

Furthermore, the sunnah is not necessarily to sleep during the day but to lie down for some time to relax. This is exactly what is required for proper relaxation according to the modem scientific investigations.

2. FAITH IN THE ALMIGHTY CREATOR AND SUSTAINER

Lack of faith in the Almighty Creator is one of the theories of psychological disorders leading to psychoneurosis and psychoses. This can be understood from the knowledge of the mechanisms of development disorders.

Man is constantly exposed to stress conditions. It is not possible to avoid stress in life. One tries to adjust to the stresses of life by methods which he has learned as well as by the inherited tendencies of reactions to stress. The resul of this stress adaptation interaction is a STESS REACTION. The effect of this stress reaction will depend upon the severity on stress and on the power of adaptation of the individual to stress. If stress is mild an dpower of adaptation is good, the reaction results in an adjustment which is beneficial to the individual. However, if the stress is severe and adjustment poor, it results in major mental disorders (psychosis).

A person who has the faith in Allah the Alkmighty and He is with Him, has an intense moral support which will sustain him in th emost adverse situations in life.

Hadith Sharif mentions extensively of the importance of the virtues of remembrances of Allah and the Holy Quran bears a testimony to it in the following words:

BEHOLD ITS MERIT THAT REMEMBRANCE OF ALLAH BESTOWS SATISFACTION OF HEART

It is logical to conclude that believing in one Allah as preached by Islam provides the real moral support as needed in life and bestows satisfaction of heart.

3. FAITH IN LIFE HEREAFTER AND ACCEPTING THE INEVITABLE

In the light of the foregoing discussion, it is obvious that one who believes that the troubles of this Dunia are nothing but emporary and Dunia is Fani, and there is a life hereafter, will be content with whatever he gets in this world. 'Accepting the inevitable' is an important and indispensable mechanism of psychological defence against frustration.

Those who do not have faith in life hereafter are totally dprived of this benefit. Those who believe in a temporary life hereafter will be partially deprived of this benefit and those who believe that they will get the rewards of all their deeds in the world only, should be expected to have an effect of fear rather than relief.

The faith in destiny and in the life hereafter as is preached by Islam should definitely be the most effective sustainer for anybody.

4. CARE OF NEIGHBOURS

In the so-called 'most advanced places', it is a fact that people do not know even their immediate neighbours. The scientific significance of keeping good relations with neighbours is being appreciated only recently with the observations of Hans Seley, known as the father of the science of Stress. He has concluded that the most important factor affecting mental peace is having good relations with neighbours. In most of the religions good relations with neighbours has been emphasized. But the meaning of aneighbour and the type of relations to be kept with neighbours is very comprehensive in Islam. As for the definition of a neighbour, in Islam all persons living in the 40 houses from the houses of an indiviudal, in all directions, are his neighbours. As regards the rights of the neighbours; these are extensive in Islam. Hazrat Gibrail stressed so much on the right of neighbours that once it appeared to Rasool (pbuh) that neighbours may have a share in the property of a person. Thus one can appreciate the status of a neighbour as considered in Islam.

It is the faith of all Muslims that all the teachings of the Prophet (pbuh) are the best of the actions. The psychiatrist will definitely realise their significance when he will look at it in an unbiased perspective.

5. SLEEP POSTURE

The posture one adopts while sleeping reveals a lot about the personality of the person, his attitude towards life and so on.

Lying down in bed relaxes the muscles of the body and the degree of relaxation is determined by the sleep posture adopted by the person.

In the semifoetal position the person lies on his side with arms and legs partially folded. The limbs are not kept in an exactly opposed position.

In terms of physical comfort, in this position it is possible to turn from side to side without undoing the set configuration of the body position. It is supposed to be the best position in terms of physical comfort. It has, therefore, been considered as the best position for relaxation.

According to an old proverb the kings are known to prefer to sleep on their back, the rich man on his stomach and th ewise man on his side.

These abovementioned observations bear testimony to the superiority of sleeping in semi-flexed position on one side.

The sleep position which was adopted by Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) is a Sunnah and is scrupulously adopted by devout Muslims. He used to lie on his right-side with limbs slightly flexed, right hand below his cheek and facing towrds Kaba Sharif. This position is similar to the semi-foetal position described above, and, obviously in the light of the existing knowledge about sleep posture, is the position adopted by a highly balanced person psychologically. It is also the best posture for relaxation, both physical and psychological. Adherence to this sleep posture should therefore, contribute a lot to total body relaxation.

SALAT AS A MEANS OF RELAXATION

In salat the person concentrates on Allah, who is not a formed object but a Light, a Noor, with all His qualities of being Rahman and Rahim. He is unlimited and will remain forever. He is the Master of the Day of Judgement, the Qeyamat, when the fate of every body will be decided. The person not only concentrates on Allah but also talks to Him in a murmuring voice, reciting His own words. The person not only sits before Allah, but stands before Him, bows down before Him and finally prostrates before Him. Praising Him with words better than which no human mind can think of and better than which no human can utter. Finally, he recites the conversation which took place between Allah and Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) during Meraj. Obviously both in physical form and in mental state, this should be a definite improvement on the most sophisticated method of concentration devised by human mind.

From theforegoing discussion, it is obvious that scientific researches have confirmed the superiority of Islamic practices. Further researches will definaitely reveal more astonishing facts regarding the superiority of faith in one Almighty Allah, faith in the eternal life hereafter and in the life style of Prophet Mohammad (pbuh).

Anxiety and psychological maladjustments bring about a chain of metabolic changes which, in turn, produce damage in various tissues of the body - causing 'PSYCHOSOMATIC DISEASE'. These diseases are the most important cause of, morbidity and mortality of mankind today. Islamic practices bring about peace of mind and soul apart from giving phsycial relaxation. Undoubtedly, if one adheres to the teachings of Prophet (pbuh) he will be greatly benefited in this life as well as in the life here after.

REFERENCE

1. Al-Quran-ul Hakeem (Surah Ra'ad)
2. 'The Teachings of Islam' by Shaikhul Hadis Hazrat Maulana Mohammad Zakaria; published by Idara Ishaat-e-Dinyat, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia, New Delhi, India.
3. 'Stress and your Heart' By Fred Kerner, Hawthorn Books Inc. 1961.
4. 'Souvenir' Divinise The Man International Conference, Bombay India, 1976-77.
5. Reader's Digest- "What your sleep position reveals". Nov. 1977 issue.

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Blind Fold Reading Method

What's "Blindfold Reading Method"

"Blindfold Reading Method" is a way that is designed to enable the ability of the midbrain and brain power that can balance the middle of the left brain and right brain.

Blindfold Test Standard Method
Finish the course one day, our children will be tested by closing their eyes to "see" and "read" without using the naked eye. This is because after the middle of the brain activated a phenomenon will occur that our children can "see" and "read" even though their eyes were covered with a cloth. Subsequent exercise of the muscles of the eyes and hands will enable more capabilities as before. You only need to train your children for 15 minutes every day.
Benefits of "Blindfold Reading Method"
Many scientists have given an explanation about the theory of functions of the left brain and right brain. According to a recent investigation, humans are the dominant right brain will process information and react in a way that berlainan.Mayority said the theory that whoever will be the dominant right brain is emotional and act by following the feeling, like menghayal. If the dominant left brain will react in a more logical manner. Students who left brain dominant trait will show more regularly. They will analyze the information and process it in teratur.Selain than that, students are more dominant left brain was carefully and follow the rules, show a strong ability in mathematics and science and can answer the question with cepat.Dengan Thus, personality someone that will be determined by the dominant species of our brains.

How the brain with students who are dominant center?
They will exhibit a balance between left brain and right brain. Thus, the ability of "brain center is the secret to success." Brain functions like a central control center for the left brain and right brain and the ability to highlight more like their original grandeur of the human brain.
Privileges are:
a) Improve the ability of remembering
b) It can encourage attention
c) Creative
d) balancing hormone
e) Stability of emotion
Students close their eyes just to show that the brain center of a pupil has been activated. Our goal is not to close the eyes. Close your eyes just the first stage where the students learn to concentrate. The disciples did not need to blindfold when it reached a high stage.

source: www.otakgenius.com

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96% Son of Indonesia had a Bad Experience on the Internet

By Fajar Widiantoro
detik.com

The parents should pay more attention to children's online activities. Because, according to research from Symantec, Internet security firm, 96% of children in Indonesia had a bad experience with a negative content on the internet.

Negative item in purpose was none other than the content from pornography, violence, gambling sites, until the other adult content that is not time for access by children. According Effendy Ibrahim, Internet Safety Advocate & Cosumer Bussines Lead for Symantec Asia.

"Three out of ten parents are not aware of the content consumed by their children while online," Ibrahim said in a presentation Norton Family Online Report 2010 at Hotel Grand Hyatt, Jakarta, Thursday (01/07/2010).

Effendy said, this report is not to scare parents, but rather intended to warn parents to better communicate with their baby while consuming Internet content.

Moreover, at this time the average child spends approximately 64 hours online each month. Based on Symantec's data, only one in three parents in Indonesia to monitor the content their children consume.

Unfortunately, even parents know of activities that kids do, they still could not communicate very well against children. "Some kids must have thought would be reprimanded when caught accessing adult sites. It should be the parents to open communication with a warm and open," said Effendy.

In the research also shows that the negative content circulating on the internet a little more influence children's emotional side. There is a feeling angry (53%), disappointed (40%), disturbed, shocked, or worried (all 38%) for having seen it.

Role of Parents

So how should parents respond to this attitude? Parents certainly have important roles related to the understanding of the existing content on the internet.

According to Effendy, a combination of technology and how to communicate to children is the most important thing. Preventive approach is far better than the repressive attitude of rebuke.

In addition, parents and the child must also make regulations about the way of surfing with a healthy family. One way to put computers in strategic places in the house and how long it is allowed internet access.

While the technical side, parents can choose the software filters Internet content in the negative. There have been many free software to perform these precautions, such as the Norton Family Online is already available in 25 languages worldwide.

The research itself involved 499 adults aged over 18 years. Of that total, 102 of whom have children aged 10-17 years. Meanwhile, for children who have surveyed 112 people aged 10-17 years, all spent an average of more than one hour per week to access the Internet.

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The Defense of Computers, the Internet and Our Brains

By NICK BILTON
The New York Times

If you’re reading this blog post on a computer, mobile phone or e-reader, please stop what you’re doing immediately. You could be making yourself stupid. And whatever you do, don’t click on the links in this post. They could distract you from the flow of my beautiful prose and narrative.
This is the alarm currently being rung by some in the bell towers of technology.

There is a lively discussion and some concern that computers, the Internet and multitasking are extracting a mental price.

Nicholas Carr argues in his book “The Shallows,” that the Internet, computers, Google, Twitter and the like, are making us into shallow thinkers and the neurocircuitry of our brain that long form reading creates is critical for society to function. Mr. Carr thinks that the Web, with its colored hypertext and endless abyss of bite-sized morsels of information, is making us stupid.

Charles Baldwin for The New York Times

Several studies show that video games and the Web stimulate areas of the brain associated with memory, hand and eye coordination and attention.

And although there are plenty of others in this camp, there are some who argue that not only are our brains just fine on the Internet, but they are indeed better off for it.

Steven Pinker, a cognitive scientist and professor of psychology at Harvard, argues on the Op-Ed page in Friday’s New York Times that the current outcry is nothing new. The same was heard, he writes, after the invention of the printing press, newspapers, paperbacks and television. Now, the fear stems from PowerPoint, search engines and Twitter.

Professor Pinker points out that our brains are intended to be rewired and learn new things. It’s the way we are built:

Critics of new media sometimes use science itself to press their case, citing research that shows how “experience can change the brain.” But cognitive neuroscientists roll their eyes at such talk. Yes, every time we learn a fact or skill the wiring of the brain changes; it’s not as if the information is stored in the pancreas. But the existence of neural plasticity does not mean the brain is a blob of clay pounded into shape by experience.

Jonah Lehrer, author of “How We Decide,” also argues that our brains are likely just fine on the Internet. Mr. Lehrer, a former neuroscientist, writes on his blog, The Frontal Cortex, that “given this paucity of evidence, I think it’s far too soon to be drawing firm conclusions about the negative effects of the Web.”

In a recent blog post Mr. Lehrer notes that the evidence critics use to attack the Web could be used to argue that we shouldn’t even walk down a city street as the cognitive load is far too great for our brains to handle. He notes that a in 2008, a group of scientists from the University of Michigan engaged in a study that showed walking led the brain to see a “dramatic decreases in working memory, self-control, visual attention and positive affect.” Mr Lehrer writes:

When people walk down the street, they are forced to exert cognitive control and top-down attention, and all that mental effort takes a temporary toll on their brain.

Based on this data, it would be easy to conclude that we should avoid the metropolis, that the city street is a hazardous place.

Then there is the reality that our brains, the tool that you, the reader, are currently using to decode these symbols and understand what they mean, has still not evolved to naturally learn to read: reading is an unnatural task that we still need to train our brains to learn.

Maryanne Wolf, the director of the Center for Reading and Language Research at Tufts, and author of “Proust and the Squid: The Story and Science of the Reading Brain,” notes that our brains were never actually designed to read. In a blog post last year on The Times blog, Room for Debate, Ms. Wolf wrote:

After many years of research on how the human brain learns to read, I came to an unsettlingly simple conclusion: We humans were never born to read. We learn to do so by an extraordinarily ingenuous ability to rearrange our “original parts” — like language and vision, both of which have genetic programs that unfold in fairly orderly fashion within any nurturant environment. Reading isn’t like that.

Ms. Wolf, who is concerned about the effects of the Web on children, recently explained in a phone interview that although our brains are not designed to read, the act and process children go through when decoding letters and narrative is an imperative part of a child’s development and thinking.

Ms. Wolf points out different media have value. “I’m not saying other mediums and technologies are not good for the brain, research shows that they are,” she said, “but we must understand the use of visual auditory narratives so we don’t neglect the role of the reading circuit.”

Research shows that each medium offers its own positive attributes: Neuroscience has shown that playing video games stimulates areas of our brains that control working memory, hand and eye coordination and attention and can stimulate and vastly improve our cognitive skills. Reading on the other hand promotes deep thought and exercises areas of the brain responsible for reflection, reasoning and critical analysis. And auditory storytelling stimulates areas of the brain involved with creativity, contextual thinking and executive function.

It could be argued that the Web, which is the ultimate library of words, video, images, interactivity, sharing and conversation, is the quintessential place to learn.

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The Amazing Midbrain Activation

Midbrain activation is a phenomenal discovery in the education of children. Actual use of the midbrain theory has been applied in many Asian countries especially Japan. Japan has long been engaged in practice midbrain activation in childrens. A child who has been activated the midbrain will have more ability than children who the midbrain have not activated.

Activities with eyes closed is a most significant activity can be seen. A child who the midbrain has been activated (Mid Brain Activated) can have extraordinary abilities. This ability is even exhibited remarkably often in magic entertainment programs. After seeing the ability of children who have been activated, most magic game show at The Master's become less attractive. Because this can be done by their own innocent children who only received training midbrain activation during the two days. Basic skills that can be done is to 'see' the card with the eyes closed (blind fold). Christofle (9 yrs), for example, after following the midbrain activation training, can sort all cards according to numbers, colors and shapes the picture cards with their eyes closed. He could use the felt senses to see the patterns and colors complete with figures just by eyesight skin (Skin Vision).

Another capability that can be done by these children is to walk with eyes closed, without crashing. Conducted experiments on a boy who walked with his eyes covered with cloth. Someone deliberately blocking the road in front. He was immediately able to avoid obstacles without touching it. A child can even recognize his father among the crowd of other parents, without touching and hearing his voice.

At more advanced levels a child is expected to
'See' objects behind walls or inside the box. He can even count the money contained in the
someone in front of her wallet without the person issuing wallet. If a child is diligent train brain functions and even the middle he can expect to read documents located in a position closed.

Predictive ability (to predict what will happen some time later) is a higher capacity that can be owned by a child. A child who has been the center of the brain activation can 'guess' what the card will appear at the time the person is still shuffle the cards. Once finished mixing, and choose a card, that person took a card that turned out exactly as 'suspected' of the child.

Midbrain activation is not something magical or supernatural smells. Midbrain activation was done by scientifically. Midbrain activation was much use Alpha brain waves. Alpha brainwaves are the scientifically proven brain waves that appear dominant as we in a state of relaxed and most creative. These brain waves are usually dominant at the time we wake up, or in a state of relax on the toilet, or even having a bath of hot water in the bathtub. No wonder why Archimedes discovered the law Achimedes when he took a shower.

Midbrain of the activated brain waves that radiate like a radar. This makes the owner able to see objects in a state of eyes closed. Basically, the wave is located below the nose. Only able to detect objects located slightly below the nose.

Regular exercise can make the children become stronger and able to see objects located higher. There are even some kids who can medeteksi to 360 degrees. That means they can detect objects located in the rear, top and all directions.

Brain activation training center has been installed in Indonesia. Today not many people know of the existence of this training program. Training is usually conducted over two days. At that time, also usually carried out training for the parents. Like other areas of expertise, parents can play a major role to help children develop their potential midbrain. A child with a strong mid-brain, expected to develop the left brain and right brain to be maximal so that they can enter the category of genius. Not only in the left brain (IQ, intellectual), or right brain (emotional, EQ) but also in 'Loving Intelligence'. They are individuals of a balanced and loving others as the creator loves him. Unfortunately this midbrain activation training can only be done for children aged 5-15 years.

Referance: www.otaktengah.com

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Football hooliganism: comparing self-awareness and social identity theory explanations

Alain Van Hiel *, Lobke Hautman, Ilse Cornelis, Barbara De Clercq
Department of Developmental, Personality, and Social Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium

Abstract
The emergence of research interest in group violence in general and football hooliganism in particular has been explained by various models generally relying on situational or individual differences accounts. Yet, these two research traditions have largely evolved independently, showing little or no interaction. In the present study (N = 109), we integrate measures of these two approaches and the results reveal that social identity was more predictive of self-reported physical aggression than of loss of private and public self-awareness. Moreover, attitudes towards violence were the most marked predictor variables of both physical and verbal aggression. In the discussion, the moderator effect of social identity and attitudes about violence on physical aggression is elaborated upon.

Keywords
attitudes • Five-Factor Model • hooliganism • mass violence • self-awareness • social identity

Source: www.wiley.com

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Don't Bail Out on Your Family Because of the Tough Economy

Hopeful Family Solutions in Tough Economic Times
A Message from Father Steven Boes, Boys Town National Executive Director.
source: www.parenting.org

As our current economic crisis puts a strain on more families, it may be time for a Parenting Stimulus Package to keep our homes a nurturing place for our children.

At Boys Town programs across the country, we know raising children is not easy even in times of prosperity. Families are struggling and those who are near the edge of despair are being put over the edge.

There is hopeful news for families. There are free or low cost, simple ways to make life easier and improve your relationship with your children.

First, reassure your children things will work out even when money problems lead to parental disagreements. I am blessed to have grown up in a rural community. That didn’t mean we had an easy life and that my mom and dad didn’t fight. We sometimes heard heated exchanges, but my parents always were reassuring. They made it a point to explain adults sometimes disagree. They then gave each other a kiss in front of us, telling us they loved each other and us. Let your children know that families who love each other and are willing to work things out can overcome any problem.

My family’s example is exactly what Father Flanagan spoke of: “There are no bad boys -- only bad environment, bad training and bad example. Just like my folks, Boys Town tries to reassure its children by showing good example, providing good environments and good training. You, as parents, can do that too.

Something we find key to helping Boys Town children is training them to make good decisions. In our Common Sense Parenting® classes and book, we have a process called SODAS – Situation, Options, Disadvantages, Advantages and Solution – that works in any family.

For example, money may be tight, and the children want to buy expensive video games. Parenting with SODAS will present children with the Situation of what resources are available for recreation, food and clothes. The next step is to help them go through the Options of how to use those resources. You can teach your children to weigh the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Options. It will help them arrive at a reasonable Solution like renting a DVD, popping popcorn and enjoying an activity as a family. This solution will not only be less expensive, but will promote family togetherness – which is what children really want.

SODAS can be applied to almost any problem. It also will create a bond between you and your children and reduce problem behaviors because your children are part of the solution.

My final message is for families running out of options. Everyone needs help. Parents, no matter how tough it is, never give up on your children. However, if you are so tired and stressed you are about to give up, it is time to ask for help.

Connect with a friend, family member, church or school group to get help. You also can reach out to Boys Town. Our Boys Town National Hotline for parents and children is free. You can call 1.800.448.3000 any time and find a calm voice, problem-solving advice and a connection to resources in your community.

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14 Secrets to Potty-Training Success

The best solutions for the 5 trickiest potty-training issues
By Lisa Milbrand, Parenting
www.parenting.com

When our daughter Katie was nearly 3, my husband and I primed her for potty-training success: We put the potty-related books in regular bedtime rotation, thrilled her with a fashionable array of brand-new big-girl panties, and stocked up on a tantalizing incentive -- M&M's.

Within two months, Katie was peeing in the potty like a pro. But no matter how much we bribed, begged, and flattered her, she refused to give up her Pull-Ups to poop. I tried every tactic I could think of: I upped the ante to a Price Is Right -- worthy prize package, took away the Pull-Ups (resulting in a serious bout of constipation and some nasty post-nap cleanups), and even, I'm ashamed to admit, threatened her with a doctor's visit and shots if she didn't do the deed. After poring over every mom board I could find, I discovered a few new ideas -- but, mainly, lots of other desperate moms.

Since no strategy can possibly fit all our quirky kids, it seems that success depends on finding the solution to your child's particular sticking point. These are the five most common, and the best tricks for getting unstuck:

1. Your kid isn't swayed by chocolate kisses, a cool truck, or any other reward
2. You found dirty undies under the bed
3. Only the potty at home will do
4. She was doing great -- and now she's not
5. He reserves number two for the diaper

Your kid isn't swayed by chocolate kisses, a cool truck, or any other reward

What's going on: The terrible twos (or threes) have kicked in, and your child's chosen to just say no -- even if it costs him an Oreo and a Lego. Your kid's aware now that you and he are separate people -- and that means he doesn't have to do what you say. The power! For an iron-willed kid, that tastes a lot better than any old piece of candy. Resist searching for a better prize: That'll only give him more veto power.

Try a little reverse psychology. After months of attempting other tricks, Nina Vultaggio of Coto de Caza, CA, simply begged her son not to use the potty. But sneakily. "I said that pirates from Disneyland called and wanted him to be a pirate, but he couldn't because they only wanted potty-trained boys," she says. "I told him not to do it because I didn't want him to be a pirate -- and he trained that day." Vultaggio splurged on a trip to the local amusement park (which happened to be Disneyland), where a staffer proclaimed her son a pirate. Your plan can be simpler: You can tell your kid you hope this isn't the week he makes the switch, because then he can sleep over at Grandma's and you'll miss him. Reverse psychology works, of course, because of the thrill of doing the opposite of what you say -- but it also takes the pressure off.

Offer a different kind of incentive. Many parents (myself included) head right into the stickers and M&M's, and they're fine, if they work. But if they don't, think about what'll make your kid proud. Does she adore a particular uncle? Play up how fun it'll be to call him with the good news that she's potty trained. Does he perk up at the mention of being a big kid? Offer a "big-kid bedtime" as a reward, and let him start staying up 15 minutes later than usual.

Reward yourself. This one may sound like a truly desperate move, but it worked at my house when Katie was unimpressed with M&M's. You give yourself (and your husband -- remind him you're a team!) a reward for doing the deed, says Teri Crane, author of Potty Train Your Child in Just One Day. "Get two jars: Fill one with change and decorate the other with a picture of an amazing trip or another special prize," she says. Then when one of you goes, move a coin to the prize jar. Act as excited as possible. This may mean clapping for yourself or (worse?) for your husband. Crane says it often takes just a few days before your kid wants in on the fun.

You found dirty undies under the bed

What's going on: Three-year-olds may get a charge out of being difficult, but at heart they want to please you. They're old enough -- and this potty-training thing tends to be all-consuming enough -- to know perfectly well what it is you want from them. So if your child uses the potty with great success and then has an accident later, she may be too upset to tell you. Hence, the hiding of the smelly panties.

Let your kid know you're on to her. Don't just clean up the mess, thinking that'll save your child from shame. "Then she believes her secret is intact," says Peter Stavinoha, Ph.D., coauthor of Stress-Free Potty Training. Tell her you found her underpants, and add: "It's okay to have an accident! Just let me or Dad know if you do." She'll see she doesn't have to worry about how you'll react.

Take a breather. The tension may just be too much. Yes, it's tough (for you) to take a time-out, but putting your child back in diapers -- even for as long as two months -- will help her relax and make training easier when you go back to it.

Try not to care so much. Ha, right? Well, think of it this way: Potty training is a process. The end goal is great, but getting there takes time. Remember, this isn't about you. It's even harder for your child, so try to get rid of any nagging feelings that you're failing here. No one is. She'll get there.

Only the potty at home will do
What's going on: Kids take comfort in the familiar -- so the weird noises and smells and strangers in the other stalls can very well make your new potty user nervous. Holding it till he gets home is, to him, a small price to pay for security.

Make every potty feel more like home. Get a travel potty seat and have your child customize it with stickers. Practice using it at home first, Crane suggests, and then when you're out, make the bathroom the first stop, if you can. Your child can test out his special seat on the new toilet and make sure it "works" before he needs to go.

Turn bathroom trips into adventures. A kid who's skeptical of a new bathroom might be compelled to test out how the sink works, count the number of stalls, or listen to the flusher. That way, it's not just about the pressure to go on the potty, and he might feel comfortable giving it a try.

Pack some Post-its. Those loud, scary self-flushing toilets are often to blame for potty phobia. A quick fix: Stick a Post-it over the toilet's electric eye until your child's finished and heading out of the stall.

She was doing great -- and now she's not

What's going on: Most likely, there's been a shake-up in her routine. That could be something big, like a new sibling or a new house, but even a weekend away or a friend's birthday party can trip up a stellar toilet-training toddler. "If things suddenly aren't as predictable for a child, she loses her sense of security -- and will revert back to something that's more comfortable," Stavinoha says. Don't consider this a failure on your part, or your child's. Setbacks are normal.

Don't reinvent the wheel. "If she was going perfectly on her potty chair but a setback occurred soon after the switch to the big toilet, go back to using the little potty. If she responded to two-hour potty reminders, begin setting a timer to remind her to visit the bathroom," says Elizabeth Pantley, author of The No-Cry Potty Training Solution. A new tactic isn't necessary -- and won't give her the familiarity she needs.

Put your kid in charge. When your kid's stressed, it's normal to want to take over and do the worrying for her. But it can help to give her control. Tell her to let you know when she's ready to start again -- it might be sooner than you think.

He reserves number two for the diaper

What's going on: There could be any number of reasons your kid will give up the diaper to pee but will simply refuse to poop in the potty. He may not want to take a break from the action to sit still on the potty, for one, or he may be fearful after toilet water unexpectedly splashed up during his last poop. The diaper might make him feel secure, so giving it up entirely is a bigger step than it seems. Often, constipation's to blame. It hurt last time, so why would he do it again?

Take it slow. Break the transition from Pull-Up to potty into baby steps. "If your child will only go in a diaper, have him do so in the bathroom, then progress to having him sit on the potty in his diaper," Pantley says. "Once he's used to this, suggest taking his diaper off and putting it into the potty-chair bowl as a 'pocket' to catch his poop."

Pump up the fiber. If constipation is the culprit, load your child up with high-fiber foods like beans, most fruits and vegetables, and whole-grain pastas and breads (skip the cheese and bananas, which can make constipation worse). If that doesn't solve the problem, have a talk with your child's doctor.

Try a little bit of everything. When Katie was balking at pooping, we decided to take a breather for a month. Then we put her on a doctor-recommended high-fiber diet, and gave her a sticker every time she sat on the potty. She soon discovered that pooping on the potty wasn't really so bad. It took a mishmash of techniques -- and a giant Costco box of lollipops -- but Katie's now out of diapers, and I've learned a few tricks to use on her sister next year.

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Attention Issues and School: A Mom's View

By: Christina Wood
newsletter@lm.kaboose.com

My son is not hyperactive. He's very calm. He's curious, bright, and a lot of fun to be around. So I was startled (okay, angry) when his kindergarten teacher called me in for a conference and made it clear that she thought there was something wrong with him. "He has trouble staying on task. He never pays attention," she said.

Then I heard the words "pediatrician" and "evaluated for attention issues," looked at the list of behavior problems she was handing me and saw red. The list included things like "humming" and "twitchy." I had liked his teacher up to that point. And I knew Cole was willful, but I didn't accept that he would fall behind in school, or the implication that he had Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD.) "He needs more of a challenge," I told her. I refused to have him evaluated by a pediatrician, who I assumed would give him a pill so he could drone through a stifling setting.

I tried to ignore the whole thing. Cole turned on the charm with his teachers and got through kindergarten that way.

The same thing happened in first grade. He learned to read just fine. He quickly got very good at math. He kept up with—in fact was mostly ahead of—the rest of the class. But he didn't finish work and rarely appeared to be paying attention. If he's keeping up, I wanted to know, what's the big deal?

"It's a big deal because his self-image could be seriously damaged by the way the world reacts to him," explains Patricia Quinn, a developmental pediatrician in the Washington, D.C. area and the author of many books on ADHD including Putting on the Brakes: Young People's Guide to Understanding Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder. "I once evaluated a three-year old with ADHD who was also very bright," she continues. "The first thing he told me was that he was bad. 'Dr. Quinn,' he said. 'When people yell at you all day long, you must be bad.'"

By the middle of first grade, I knew this all too well. Cole's teacher and I had tried everything from reward systems to punishments to get him to finish his work. He would do it long enough to demonstrate that he could but it was not consistent. As a result, he was always in trouble.

One day, I went to school to visit him at "Fun Day" and found him in the classroom refusing to complete a test. I looked at it. It should have been easy for him. I decided right then that this couldn't go on. So I asked him if he wanted to finish the test and go to fun day or come home with me. "I have to get 100 percent to go to fun day," he told me, miserable. "Just finish it," I said. "If you don't get 100 percent, we'll go to the playground." He perked up, answered all the questions as quickly as he could, got 100 percent, and went to fun day. But I'd made up my mind; he was being treated like a bad kid. Whether it was because he was bright and bored or had ADHD wasn't the point. It had to stop. But how?

"School is the least ADHD friendly place in the world," agrees Quinn. "But it is what we have." She explained that there are myriad ways to cope depending on the child, the diagnosis, the parent's situation, and the school system. What's the same in every case where a child is being called out as a problem is that you must deal with it—the sooner the better.

"You have a window between when they are about five to 10 or 11 years old to treat this before it starts to affect their self esteem in some permanent ways," cautions Janet Z. Giler, Ph.D., a California family therapist, educator, and author of an Attention Deficit Disorder website (www.ld-add.com) established to help parents recognize and manage ADHD and learning disabilities in children.

I called the therapist who'd been recommended to me the year before. I was now thinking in terms of finding strategies for dealing with the education system rather than avoiding a diagnosis for ADHD. But I wish I'd gotten to that point a year earlier.

"Teachers have a pretty good frame of reference when it comes to identifying behaviors and symptoms since they see a lot of children from year to year," says Quinn. But these behaviors can have a lot of different explanations other than ADHD. "Child abuse can look like ADHD," offers Giler, "Depression can look like it. A child who hasn't been socialized before getting to school may be withdrawn or distractible. Children who are very bright and bored can look like they have attention problems."

And taking a pill is not the only solution. "Medication is too easy an answer," says Quinn. "This is about self-knowledge. If you know yourself well enough to know that you can't focus on boring tasks, you make sure you don't choose a career that requires you to focus on boring tasks. It is the same with a child." I was starting to see how these same factors had shaped my own life. Maybe I was the right person to help him deal with this.

I don't yet know the right answer but I know the wrong one—ignoring it. Maybe the solution is to give him a motive for completing those boring tasks—a reward system of some kind that is the same at home and at school. More likely a different type of classroom is the answer for him. I'm considering private schools, an inquiry-based charter school, a magnet school for math and science, and home schooling. We may end up trying all of these options and more between now and college.

"It sounds like you are on the right track," Quinn assures me. "At least you aren't in denial anymore."

Eventually this can be a good thing, she counsels. "If [your son] wants to be a CEO, a lot of these traits will be very useful. And then he can hire people to do all the boring things that need to get done."

But between now and then he has to get an education and continue to believe, as I do, that's he's not a bad kid. Quinn helped me to see that I have a lot of experience with this and that Cole probably comes to his "attention problems" through genetics. (There isn't one of us on either side of the family that would choose to be an accountant. We are a creative bunch and we lose our car keys frequently. But that also means we have a lot of knowledge of what worked for us--and what didn't--to draw from.)

Whatever the doctor we visit calls Cole's "problem" no longer matters to me—except that it might be a useful tool—because I no longer see it as a problem. I see it as a challenge and, like Cole, I like things to be challenging rather than boring. So even if he isn't a good fit for the school system, he's a great fit for this family. I just have to make sure he knows that.

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5 Big Ways to Help Kids Love Books

By: Amy Maclin
Email:newsletter@lm.kaboose.com

Getting kids jazzed about reading can be an out there concept, or as simple as anticipated trips to the library.

Mary Brigid Barrett, children's author and illustrator, teacher, and founder of the National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance, shares her favorite ways to cultivate bookworms.

1. Make it an experience for all the senses.

"It's wonderful to have a book come alive in a sensory way. I love to read Robert McCloskey's book Lentil to preschoolers, and I always pass out lemon slices first. The story is about a boy in a small town in Ohio who saves the day with his harmonica. There's a part where the town's band is all set to play in a celebration — until they see the villain, Old Sneep, sucking on a lemon, and they all pucker up and can't play their instruments. At that point I tell the kids, 'Suck on the lemon!' They get a huge kick out of it."

2. Engage in a spirited debate.

"You want kids to start thinking critically, because that's what education is all about, and it's never too early. Take the story of the itsy bitsy spider: When I ask a group of 4-year-olds who the hero of that story is, they'll always chime right in with 'The spider!' And then you follow that with: 'The spider has a problem. What's the problem?' For a 6-year-old you can even introduce the word conflict into the conversation. Ask them, 'What would happen if there weren't any rain, and the spider could climb right out of the drain?' Well, it would be really boring if there was no problem to solve. Protagonist, conflict, resolution — there you have all the elements of literature! Very little is beyond kids’ grasp if you can relate it to their experience level.

Now the first three or four times, a book should be read for pure enjoyment, of course. But when the kids ask for the same books again and again — and you're getting bored out of your mind — these kinds of conversations can keep things lively for you, too."

3. Write a book of your own.

"For a child who's just starting to read, get a spiral notebook or sketch book with blank pages and make him his own personalized word book. You can start with the family: Have photographs of Dad and Mom, or even ask an older sibling to draw them. Print the letters, big and bold. Have a picture of their grandfather that says not only "grandfather" but "Poppo."

Then you can expand it from there with whatever interests your child. If you have a kid who's a fire-truck maniac, fill it with pictures from the fire station. I know one family whose young son was absolutely obsessed with vacuum cleaners — upon meeting you, he'll ask whether you have an upright or a canister!

This is also a terrific introduction to writing, and when your kids get older it can lead them into crafting their own stories."

4. Find out what else the library offers.

"Libraries can have so much that parents might not know about — DVDs, audio books, even games and puzzles that can be checked out. Some have preschool PJ nights. Many have museum passes, which are usually for one or two adults and at least two children.

The library is a great resource for parents, too: Two books I love are Jim Trelease's Read-Aloud Handbook, which recommends great books broken down into age ranges, and Anita Silvey's 100 Best Books for Children, which not only describes the books but gives great anecdotes about their creators. For instance, she tells how Robert McCloskey — who wrote not only Lentil but Make Way for Ducklings— actually had a group of ducklings that he brought into his apartment, where he put them into the bathtub and drew them. That's a great story for kids."

5. Get everybody involved.

"A lot of parents feel guilty because the standard advice is to read to your child for at least 15 minutes a day, and if you have three kids it's not always practical to have three individual reading sessions for three different levels. But there are things that are appropriate for kids at a wide range of ages.

For instance, you might think a 6-year-old won't be interested in a board book. But she may feel a sense of ownership about it and want to engage a younger sibling by helping her 'read aloud,' even if she's just reciting the story from memory.

"Beverly Cleary's Beezus and Ramona series, and Russell Hoban's Frances the Badger books would be very appropriate for kids three to six. I read Charlotte's Web to my three kids when they were eight, six, and three. The day after we finished it, Patrick, the baby, said, 'That was so great. Can we read another novel?' When in doubt, always go for the 'reach' book.

"Also, be patient with the ones who just have high energy levels. One of my children would sit for hours and listen to books, one was a little whirling dervish, and the third was somewhere in the middle. Just say, 'I'm going to read aloud,’ and then keep going. Even the dervish is going to absorb something. And take heart — the heroes of children's books usually tend to be little dervishes themselves. Try to think of a children's-book character who's perfectly complacent and obedient. I dare you!"

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Brain Mechanisms of Visuomotor Transformation Based on Deficits in Tracing and Copying

KENJI OGAWA and CHIYOKO NAGAI ERATO Asada Project, Japan Science and Technology Agency

TOSHIO INUI Kyoto University

ABSTRACT
The neural mechanisms underlying visuomotor transformation are examined based on deficits in tracing and copying, as well as functional neuroimaging studies. The developmental process of copying and tracing, as well as lesion studies with adults showing disability in drawing, are reviewed, then two experiments are introduced. In Experiment 1, a behavioral analysis of copying and tracing by individuals with Williams Syndrome (WS) was presented. In Experiment 2, the brain activity involved in copying and tracing was measured in normal adults using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Based on these findings, we propose a model of visuomotor transformation to explain the neural basis of tracing and copying, as well as to provide a possible neural mechanism underlying the copying deficits and closing-in phenomenon observed in WS.

KEYWORDS
visuomotor transformation • tracing and copying • clinical study • fMRI • posterior parietal cortex

Source: Wiley.com

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Eye Movements During Fixation as Velocity Noise in Minimum Motion Detection

IKUYA MURAKAMI
University of Tokyo

ABSTRACT
The functional roles and perceptual consequences of fixational eye movements are argued. The retinal image motions due to these eye movements are viewed as normally unnoticed velocity noise that limits performance of minimum motion detection without reference. When the motion detection threshold and the variability of eye velocity during fixation were measured for a group of normal adult observers, an interobserver correlation was established between psychophysical and oculomotor data. In particular, when both eyes were open, the threshold of unreferenced motion was positively correlated with the fixation instability of the eye, making larger drifts. Preliminary data also suggested the possibility that the fixation instability of this eye still dominates the detection threshold if this eye was occluded during the task. Possible schemes of living with such velocity noise as originating from fixation instability are discussed.

KEYWORDS
vision • eye movement • motion detection • correlation

Source: Wiley.com

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The Role of Teachers in the Assessment of Children Suspected of Having AD/HD

Gill Salmon and Amanda Kirby

Correspondence to Gill Salmon
Trehafod Child and Family Clinic
Waunarlwydd Road
Cockett
Swansea SA2 0GB
Email: salmogm@doctors.org.uk

ABSTRACT

In the light of recent guidance published by The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) on the diagnosis and management of attention deficit disorders in children, young persons and adults, Gill Salmon, a consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist based in Swansea, South Wales, and Amanda Kirby, Professor of Developmental Disorders in Education based at the University of Wales, Newport, give an overview of the rationale for involving teachers in the assessment of children with AD/HD and the development and implementation of subsequent educational interventions. They also review the resulting training implications; explore some of the obstacles to multi-agency, multi-disciplinary working; and examine how current special educational needs policy goes hand-in-hand with the tiered approach to provision of child and adolescent mental health services in offering a graduated response to these children.

KEYWORDS
attention deficit disorders • teachers • assessment • intervention

Source: www3.interscience.wiley.com

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The influence of sex on the course and psychiatric correlates of ADHD from childhood to adolescence: A longitudinal study

Michael C. Monuteaux,1 Eric Mick,1 Stephen V. Faraone,2 and Joseph Biederman1

1. Clinical and Research Programs in Pediatric Psychiatry and Adult ADHD, Psychiatry Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; 

2. SUNY Genetics Research Program and Department of Psychiatry, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA

Background: 

Little is known about the influence of sex on the course of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its comorbid psychiatric conditions. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of sex on the course and psychiatric correlates of ADHD from childhood into adolescence.

Methods:  

Two identically designed, longitudinal, case–control family studies of male and female probands with and without ADHD and their siblings were combined. All subjects were blindly assessed with structured diagnostic interviews. Among subjects with a lifetime history of ADHD (n = 471, mean age 11.5 ± 4.3 years at baseline), we used linear growth curve models to estimate the effect of time on the change in ADHD symptoms, and whether this effect differed by sex. We also we examined the effect of sex on the association between ADHD and the longitudinal progression of comorbid psychopathology using structural equation models. 

Results:  

We found no evidence that sex moderated the effect of age on ADHD symptoms; in both genders, age exhibited a similar effect on the decline of ADHD symptoms. However, the female sample demonstrated greater stability in comorbid psychopathology from childhood into adolescence. Furthermore, we found that the stability of comorbid psychopathology in females remained significant after accounting for the correlation between adolescent psychopathology and adolescent ADHD. In males, childhood and adolescent comorbid psychopathology were no longer correlated when adolescent ADHD was taken into account. 

Conclusions: 

Our findings indicate that while the course of ADHD across childhood and adolescence did not differ between males and females, patterns of psychiatric comorbidity were conditional on sex. Future studies should explicitly test how sex modifies the associations between ADHD and risk factors and ADHD and associated functional outcomes. 

Keywords: ADHD, growth curve, sex, longitudinal, structural equation model.

Source: www3.interscience.wiley.com

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Understanding the Role of Neuroscience in Brain Based Products: A Guide for Educators and Consumers

Lesley J. Sylvan and Joanna A. Christodoulou

Harvard University, Graduate School of Education
Address correspondence to Joanna A. Christodoulou, Harvard Graduate
School of Education, Longfellow Hall, Appian Way, Cambridge, MA
02138; e-mail: jac765@mail.harvard.edu.

ABSTRACT

The term brain based is often used to describe learning theories, principles, and products. Although there have been calls urging educators to be cautious in interpreting and using such material, consumers may find it challenging to understand the role of the brain and to discriminate among brain based products to determine which would be suitable for specific educational goals.We offer a framework for differentiating the multiple meanings of the brain based label and guidelines for educators and consumers to use when evaluating educational products labeled as brain based. The guidelines include: identifying educational goals and target student populations, aligning goals and product purposes, reviewing product merits, identifying benefits and limitations of the product, and characterizing the product’s impact on behavioral performance.

Source: www3.interscience.wiley.com

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The Moral Life of Babies (7)

Paul Bloom

is a professor of psychology at Yale. His new book, “How Pleasure Works”

The evolutionary psychologist has a quick response to this: To say that a biological trait evolves for a purpose doesn’t mean that it always functions, in the here and now, for that purpose. Sexual arousal, for instance, presumably evolved because of its connection to making babies; but of course we can get aroused in all sorts of situations in which baby-making just isn’t an option — for instance, while looking at pornography. Similarly, our impulse to help others has likely evolved because of the reproductive benefit that it gives us in certain contexts — and it’s not a problem for this argument that some acts of niceness that people perform don’t provide this sort of benefit. (And for what it’s worth, giving up a bus seat for an old lady, although the motives might be psychologically pure, turns out to be a coldbloodedly smart move from a Darwinian standpoint, an easy way to show off yourself as an attractively good person.)

The general argument that critics like Wallace and D’Souza put forward, however, still needs to be taken seriously. The morality of contemporary humans really does outstrip what evolution could possibly have endowed us with; moral actions are often of a sort that have no plausible relation to our reproductive success and don’t appear to be accidental byproducts of evolved adaptations. Many of us care about strangers in faraway lands, sometimes to the extent that we give up resources that could be used for our friends and family; many of us care about the fates of nonhuman animals, so much so that we deprive ourselves of pleasures like rib-eye steak and veal scaloppine. We possess abstract moral notions of equality and freedom for all; we see racism and sexism as evil; we reject slavery and genocide; we try to love our enemies. Of course, our actions typically fall short, often far short, of our moral principles, but these principles do shape, in a substantial way, the world that we live in. It makes sense then to marvel at the extent of our moral insight and to reject the notion that it can be explained in the language of natural selection. If this higher morality or higher altruism were found in babies, the case for divine creation would get just a bit stronger.

But it is not present in babies. In fact, our initial moral sense appears to be biased toward our own kind. There’s plenty of research showing that babies have within-group preferences: 3-month-olds prefer the faces of the race that is most familiar to them to those of other races; 11-month-olds prefer individuals who share their own taste in food and expect these individuals to be nicer than those with different tastes; 12-month-olds prefer to learn from someone who speaks their own language over someone who speaks a foreign language. And studies with young children have found that once they are segregated into different groups — even under the most arbitrary of schemes, like wearing different colored T-shirts — they eagerly favor their own groups in their attitudes and their actions.

The notion at the core of any mature morality is that of impartiality. If you are asked to justify your actions, and you say, “Because I wanted to,” this is just an expression of selfish desire. But explanations like “It was my turn” or “It’s my fair share” are potentially moral, because they imply that anyone else in the same situation could have done the same. This is the sort of argument that could be convincing to a neutral observer and is at the foundation of standards of justice and law. The philosopher Peter Singer has pointed out that this notion of impartiality can be found in religious and philosophical systems of morality, from the golden rule in Christianity to the teachings of Confucius to the political philosopher John Rawls’s landmark theory of justice. This is an insight that emerges within communities of intelligent, deliberating and negotiating beings, and it can override our parochial impulses.

The aspect of morality that we truly marvel at — its generality and universality — is the product of culture, not of biology. There is no need to posit divine intervention. A fully developed morality is the product of cultural development, of the accumulation of rational insight and hard-earned innovations. The morality we start off with is primitive, not merely in the obvious sense that it’s incomplete, but in the deeper sense that when individuals and societies aspire toward an enlightened morality — one in which all beings capable of reason and suffering are on an equal footing, where all people are equal — they are fighting with what children have from the get-go. The biologist Richard Dawkins was right, then, when he said at the start of his book “The Selfish Gene,” “Be warned that if you wish, as I do, to build a society in which individuals cooperate generously and unselfishly toward a common good, you can expect little help from biological nature.” Or as a character in the Kingsley Amis novel “One Fat Englishman” puts it, “It was no wonder that people were so horrible when they started life as children.”

Morality, then, is a synthesis of the biological and the cultural, of the unlearned, the discovered and the invented. Babies possess certain moral foundations — the capacity and willingness to judge the actions of others, some sense of justice, gut responses to altruism and nastiness. Regardless of how smart we are, if we didn’t start with this basic apparatus, we would be nothing more than amoral agents, ruthlessly driven to pursue our self-interest. But our capacities as babies are sharply limited. It is the insights of rational individuals that make a truly universal and unselfish morality something that our species can aspire to.

Source: www.nytimes.com

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The Moral Life of Babies (6)

Paul Bloom

is a professor of psychology at Yale. His new book, “How Pleasure Works”

Dispensing justice like this is a more elaborate conceptual operation than merely preferring good to bad, but there are still-more-elaborate moral calculations that adults, at least, can easily make. For example: Which individual would you prefer — someone who rewarded good guys and punished bad guys or someone who punished good guys and rewarded bad guys? The same amount of rewarding and punishing is going on in both cases, but by adult lights, one individual is acting justly and the other isn’t. Can babies see this, too?

To find out, we tested 8-month-olds by first showing them a character who acted as a helper (for instance, helping a puppet trying to open a box) and then presenting a scene in which this helper was the target of a good action by one puppet and a bad action by another puppet. Then we got the babies to choose between these two puppets. That is, they had to choose between a puppet who rewarded a good guy versus a puppet who punished a good guy. Likewise, we showed them a character who acted as a hinderer (for example, keeping a puppet from opening a box) and then had them choose between a puppet who rewarded the bad guy versus one who punished the bad guy.

The results were striking. When the target of the action was itself a good guy, babies preferred the puppet who was nice to it. This alone wasn’t very surprising, given that the other studies found an overall preference among babies for those who act nicely. What was more interesting was what happened when they watched the bad guy being rewarded or punished. Here they chose the punisher. Despite their overall preference for good actors over bad, then, babies are drawn to bad actors when those actors are punishing bad behavior.

All of this research, taken together, supports a general picture of baby morality. It’s even possible, as a thought experiment, to ask what it would be like to see the world in the moral terms that a baby does. Babies probably have no conscious access to moral notions, no idea why certain acts are good or bad. They respond on a gut level. Indeed, if you watch the older babies during the experiments, they don’t act like impassive judges — they tend to smile and clap during good events and frown, shake their heads and look sad during the naughty events (remember the toddler who smacked the bad puppet). The babies’ experiences might be cognitively empty but emotionally intense, replete with strong feelings and strong desires. But this shouldn’t strike you as an altogether alien experience: while we adults possess the additional critical capacity of being able to consciously reason about morality, we’re not otherwise that different from babies — our moral feelings are often instinctive. In fact, one discovery of contemporary research in social psychology and social neuroscience is the powerful emotional underpinning of what we once thought of as cool, untroubled, mature moral deliberation.

Is This the Morality We’re Looking For?
What do these findings about babies’ moral notions tell us about adult morality? Some scholars think that the very existence of an innate moral sense has profound implications. In 1869, Alfred Russel Wallace, who along with Darwin discovered natural selection, wrote that certain human capacities — including “the higher moral faculties” — are richer than what you could expect from a product of biological evolution. He concluded that some sort of godly force must intervene to create these capacities. (Darwin was horrified at this suggestion, writing to Wallace, “I hope you have not murdered too completely your own and my child.”)

A few years ago, in his book “What’s So Great About Christianity,” the social and cultural critic Dinesh D’Souza revived this argument. He conceded that evolution can explain our niceness in instances like kindness to kin, where the niceness has a clear genetic payoff, but he drew the line at “high altruism,” acts of entirely disinterested kindness. For D’Souza, “there is no Darwinian rationale” for why you would give up your seat for an old lady on a bus, an act of nice-guyness that does nothing for your genes. And what about those who donate blood to strangers or sacrifice their lives for a worthy cause? D’Souza reasoned that these stirrings of conscience are best explained not by evolution or psychology but by “the voice of God within our souls.”

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