This study examines differences in coping strategies (CSs) in relation to gifted status, gender, and family size. Two hundred gifted adolescents were selected from gifted schools, and 1000 non-gifted adolescents were selected from ordinary schools. One-way multivariate analysis of variance produced significant differences among the subjects in relation to gifted status, gender, and family size. Descriptive discriminant analysis revealed that the CS "Seeking Professional Support" was the most significant to distinguish between gifted and non-gifted adolescents among the selected variables (i.e. gifted status, gender, and family size). Moreover, "Investing in Close Friend" was the most significant to distinguish between the participants in relation to gender. On the other hand, "Ventilating Feelings" contributed the most in distinguishing between the subjects in relation to family size.

A total of 358 college students were given the Draw-A-Person Test (DAP; Machover, 1949) along with a Family Structure Item Form. The sex of the person drawn was compared to the participant's sex and family background characteristics. Results support drawing of a same-sexed individual as normative, regardless of sex. However, a significantly larger number of women than men drew the opposite sex first. Compared to previous studies on Jordanian populations, women drew the opposite sex figure less often than their previous counterparts. This phenomenon and other findings pertaining to some significant family variables are discussed in a sociocultural context and suggestions for future research are presented.

A growing body of empirical evidence suggests psychological and personality risk factors for cardiovascular disease in Western developed countries. This study expands that line of health research to a community sample of 309 Jordanians (half of whom were diagnosed with heart problems). Using the Distress Scale, Beck Depression Inventory-II, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, this study determined that Type D personality, depression, and anxiety have value in predicting cardiovascular disease. The results showed that older individuals with high levels of social inhibition are more likely to have heart disease compared to younger participants. Anxiety and depression were also potent risk factors. The emerging pattern confirms the cross-cultural validity of Type D personality as well as depression and anxiety indices in predisposing individuals to cardiovascular disease. This study calls for using a multiple-level-analysis approach combining personality and social influences. Patients and health providers can engineer health through psychological wellness and health-promotive behavior. Programs based on self-empowerment theory that target the roots of anxiety and depression, as well as the social inhibition and negative affectivity dimensions of Type D personality (e.g., rage, hostility), should be an integral component of any therapy or intervention.