Bob Perdue

On-line Literature Retrieval: An Alternative Research Strategy

The efficacy of using comprehensive database search strategies in performing a literature retrieval is investigated. The DIALOG service was used with DIALINDEX subject category options as the major search vehicle. Databases from the DIALINDEX subject categories PSYCH (which includes PsycINFO) and MEDICINE were accessed with two sample searches. The results indicated that databases other than PsychINFO provided relevant citations. Overlap of citations among databases was negligible. The findings suggest that on-line literature retrieval involving psychological topics should include comprehensive database strategies. Several major commercial services offers such options.

Benefits of multidatabase searching: a forensic case study.

The research base for topics in forensic psychology is multidisciplinary. This paper highlights the critical importance of conducting multidatabase searches to obtain a comprehensive literature review of forensic topics.

A nurse's guide to mental health assessment reference sources.

1. As the research base on psychological testing has proliferated across various disciplines, a comprehensive review of the testing literature is recommended. 2. In researching literature on psychological tests, nurses need to rely on traditional print as well as electronic databases and Internet sites. 3. In reviewing test items or in using a test, nurses need to be aware of test-user qualifications and publisher copyright restrictions.

The Psycarticles Database: Attributes and Limitations

This paper presents an overview on the main features of the new APA database, PsycARTICLES, with a focus on the citation searching option. Both positive aspects and limitations of the file are noted.

The Use of PsycBOOKS in Academic Libraries

A survey concerning usage of PsycBOOKS was mailed to the database coordinators at 280 academic libraries in the United States in the winter of 1991. A total of 160 usable returns, representing a 57% return rate, were received. Results indicate that a majority of the responding libraries did not own this important reference tool, and were not planning to acquire it, although patrons from libraries that did own it responded positively to its format and ease of use. Some comments received indicated a lack of awareness about the existence of PsycBOOKS, while others indicated an interest in waiting for its appearance in CD-ROM format before purchasing.

Conference Papers Index and Information Retrieval in Psychology

The Conference Papers Index is presented as a potential source for retrieval of convention presentations.

Psychology of Computer Use: III. Accessing the Biosis Previews Database in Clinical Psychology

This study investigated the efficacy of using the database BIOSIS PREVIEWS as an online retrieval tool in clinical psychology. Considering the vast information store (53 million records) of this underutilized database, the authors demonstrated the productivity of BIOSIS versus PsycINFO citation output. Several illustrated examples were offered, and the implications of the results attest to the usefulness of accessing BIOSIS as an adjunct bibliographic retrieval strategy when searching the professional literature.