A sample of 210 published data sets were assembled that (a) plotted amount remembered versus time, (b) had 5 or more points, and (cj were smooth enough to fit at least 1 of the functions tested with a correlation coefficient of .90 or greater. Each was fit to 105 different 2-parameter functions. The best fits were to the logarithmic function, the power function, the exponential in the square root of time, and the hyperbola in the square root of time. It is difficult to distinguish among these 4 functions with the available data, but the same set of 4 functions fit most data sets, with autobiographical memory being the exception. Theoretical motivations for the best fitting functions are offered. The methodological problems of evaluating functions and the advantages of searching existing data for regularities before formulating theories are considered.At the simplest level, this article is a search for regularities. We ask whether there is one retention function that can describe all of memory, or perhaps a different function for each of a small number of different kinds of memory. At a more abstract level, it is about the role of theory and data in psychological research. Can we most rapidly advance psychology as a science by developing theories at the level that commonly fills psychological journals such as this one, or should we first try to describe phenomena that could constrain theories by establishing robust, preferably quantitative, regularities (Rubin, 1985(Rubin, , 1989(Rubin, , 1995? A balance between these alternatives is needed, and here we argue that to obtain such a balance more description is needed.Retention offers the ideal topic to make this abstract, philoDavid C. Rubin, Department of Experimental Psychology, Duke University; Amy E. Wenzel, Department of Psychology, University of Iowa.We thank John Anderson, Alan Boneau, John Cerella, Herb Crovitz, Sean Hinton, Armando Machado, Bennet Murdock, Matt Serra, Harold Schiffman, John Staddon, Wayne Wickelgren, and John Wixted for their suggestions; Richard Palmer for information about the exponential-power function and its history and use in physics; Michael Reed for mathematical advice and help with derivations; Robert Terry for statistical advice; and Jenny Zervakis for help

No abstract

These findings suggest that IPT is an efficacious treatment for postpartum depression. Interpersonal psychotherapy reduced depressive symptoms and improved social adjustment, and represents an alternative to pharmacotherapy, particularly for women who are breastfeeding.

Twin, adoption, and family studies have established the heritability of suicide attempts and suicide. Identifying specific suicide diathesis-related genes has proven more difficult. As with psychiatric disorders in general, methodological difficulties include complexity of the phenotype for suicidal behavior and distinguishing suicide diathesis-related genes from genes associated with mood disorders and other suicide-associated psychiatric illness. Adopting an endophenotype approach involving identification of genes associated with heritable intermediate phenotypes, including biological and/or behavioral markers more proximal to genes, is an approach being used for other psychiatric disorders. Therefore, a workshop convened by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University, and the National Institute of Mental Health sought to identify potential target endophenotypes for genetic studies of suicidal behavior. The most promising endophenotypes were trait aggression/impulsivity, early-onset major depression, neurocognitive function, and cortisol social stress response. Other candidate endophenotypes requiring further investigation include serotonergic neurotransmission, second messenger systems, and borderline personality disorder traits.

A valuable source for practicing psychologists, psychologists in training, attorneys, and mental health professionals in general, this third edition is a thorough update of a now classic text in the fi eld of suicidology. With over 500 new references, the authors distill the empirical research fi ndings of the past two decades into eff ective clinical strategies and guidelines that can signifi cantly enhance the quality of care in this high-risk practice area.Th e Suicidal Patient provides an overview of the legal landscape, evaluates evidence-based assessment methods, and reviews treatment and management strategies for both outpatients and inpatients. Bongar and Sullivan propose practical risk management strategies for suicide prevention and postvention, emphasizing the importance of eff ective evaluation and documentation. Signifi cant and extensive new material has been included on fi rearms, veterans and the military, diversity, and sexual minority status.Th is practical resource can help clinicians, supervisors, and administrators provide better care for suicidal patients, and ultimately help better serve all patients-with the ultimate goal of saving lives. 2013. 416 pages. Hardcover.