In this article the authors analyze the use of "risks of formula language" versus "benefits of breastfeeding language" in breastfeeding advocacy texts. Feeding intentionality and 434 adult respondents' assessments of advocacy texts were examined at a mid-western university in the fall of 2009. No significant difference was observed between those who read text phrased in terms of "risks of formula feeding" and those who read text describing "benefits of breastfeeding" in feeding intentionality. Results supported the expectation that respondents would less favorably assess texts using risk language-respondents rated risk texts as less trustworthy, accurate, and helpful compared to benefit text. Texts were also varied in "medical" and "breastfeeding advocacy group" affiliations. Analyses revealed that texts including the medical logo were rated significantly more favorably compared to breastfeeding advocacy logo and no logo conditions. Findings suggest that use of risk language may not be an advantageous health promotion strategy, but may be counter-productive to the goals of breastfeeding advocates.

Consistent with a life course and social contextual approach, this study proposes a reciprocal relationship between stressful life events and emotional distress during the transition from adolescence to early adulthood. Study predictions included continuity of events and distress, and reciprocal causation between events and distress. SEM analysis of longitudinal, prospective data from 526 white, rural targets largely supported study expectations. Stressful events and distress showed stability over time, and a degree of reciprocity between events and distress was observed. At each of three time points, stressful events predicted psychological distress, and psychological distress at mid-and late-adolescence predicted events at early adulthood. Possible direct and buffering effects of resource were also examined, including, financial, self-concept, and social support. Analysis of resource models revealed a direct and buffering influence of financial resources.