Education

Behavioral Disorders in Children and Adolescents: Implications for Parents and Teachers
Listen to a discussion of our current understanding of the causes of disorders such as Tourette Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Strategies and approaches which parents and teachers can use to create supportive, less stressful environments for children facing these challenges will be presented. In addition, an examination will be made of the particular kind of rage or storm episodes or defiance of authority figures which proves so difficult for the adults who interact with adolescents who have these disorders.
Dr. Judith Newman

Life Long Learning
Education does not have to end with high school or college graduation. In fact, one should never stop learning. People who participate in life long learning experiences develop increased self-confidence levels which empower them in all areas of their lives. A wide variety of structured and unstructured programs provide opportunities for adults to develop new skills, keep their minds active, make new social contacts and even find new career opportunities. There are life long learning options suitable for everyone. Discover some of the alternatives and the ways in which to locate and become involved in them.
Joy K. Fraunfelter

Revisiting the Nature-Nurture Controversy
Researchers have long tried to determine whether hereditary or environmental factors exert a greater influence upon a person’s actions, personality, health, etc. This presentation offers a unique perspective on the debate. After a review of the philosophical roots of this controversy, we will journey through the 1900s to see how the controversy was addressed in research with children, especially concerning intelligence. We will then relate the controversy to issues such as autism, attention deficit disorder and child temperament (e.g., focusing on the ways in which brain chemistry influences a child’s temperament which, in turn, impacts upon and is impacted by a parent’s behavior). The importance of nurturing a child’s nature or allowing a good fit between the child’s genetic predispositions and their environments will be emphasized.
Dr. Judith Newman

The Big Ten University in your Neighborhood
Penn State Abington offers two- and four-year degrees in a wide variety of programs at an affordable price and in a safe, picturesque setting. Learn about the services and opportunities Abington College can provide for traditional students, adults, businesses, and community groups. Presentations can be structured to meet the individual needs of diverse groups.
Penn State Abington Faculty and Staff

Understanding the Recruitment Process for Student Athletes
College athletic recruitment has become very competitive over the last ten years. This presentation allows prospective student-athletes to better understand the college academic requirements and the qualities a coach looks for in a person. The audience learns about the athletic recruitment process: evaluation, relationship building, admission application, financial aid application, and matriculation to college.
Jon Tanous

Understanding the Teenage Brain: Implications for Parents
The concept of the teenage brain may to some seem to be a contradiction in terms; however, this work in progress not only exists, but also demonstrates very unique characteristics. Based upon the results of research into adolescent brain activity, personality, identity, and intellectual development, suggestions for “appropriate” parenting of teens will be offered.
Dr. Judith Newman