For many years, what has been known about recovery from addictive behaviors has come solely from treatment studies. Only recently has the study of recoveries in the absence of formal treatment or self-help groups provided an alternative source of information. This book on the process of self-change from addictive behaviors is the first of its kind, as it presents more than research findings. Rather, it presents the process of self-change from several different perspectives - environmental, cross-cultural, prevention and interventions at both societal and individual level. It provides strategies for how health care practitioners and government policy makers alike can aid and foster self-change. Directions for future research priorities are also presented.

Abstract: The purpose of this research study was to determine if differences existed in gait parameters of elderly individuals according to their level of physical activity. Thirty independently living individuals 65 years of age and older served as subjects. The subjects completed a physical activity questionnaire, which categorized them into one of three physical activity levels, inactive, mildly active, or very active. They walked at their normal pace for 18 feet while being filmed. Video images were then analyzed using the PEAK 5 motion analysis computer software. Arm swing, cadence, step length, stride length, velocity, and vertical excursion of center of gravity were examined. A 2x3 ANOVA was performed comparing gender, physical activity level, and the six gait parameters. No significant differences (p>.05) were found upon the comparison of physical activity and the 6 gait parameters. However, significant gender differences (p