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Using multimedia to teach conflict-resolution skills to young adolescents
K Bosworth1, D Espelage, T DuBay
1Center for Adolescent Studies, School of Education, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405-1006, USA. KBOSWORT@INDIANA.EDU
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|September 1, 1996
Summary
This study evaluated SMART Talk, a computer-based violence prevention program for adolescents. Findings suggest the intervention provided valuable anger management and conflict resolution skills for at-risk youth.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Public Health
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Adolescent violence is a significant public health concern, with many students exhibiting aggressive behaviors and experiencing risk factors like anger and unsafe environments.
- Existing violence prevention programs may not adequately address the complex needs of diverse student populations.
- There is a need for engaging and accessible interventions to equip young adolescents with conflict resolution and anger management skills.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of SMART Talk, a multimedia, computer-based violence prevention intervention for middle school students.
- To assess the program's impact on anger management, dispute resolution, and perspective-taking skills.
- To determine the feasibility and impact of a 16-week intervention in a diverse middle school setting.
Main Methods:
- A 16-week randomized controlled trial involving 558 middle school students (grades 6-8) from a diverse socioeconomic population.
- Intervention group received access to SMART Talk, a program utilizing games, simulations, and interactive interviews for violence prevention.
- Data collected via pre- and post-intervention surveys measuring demographics, psychosocial factors, and violence-related behaviors, supplemented by school records.
Main Results:
- The intervention and control groups were comparable at baseline across all measured variables.
- A significant percentage of students reported engaging in aggressive behaviors such as fighting and bullying.
- Students in the intervention group gained access to anger management strategies and conflict resolution skills through the SMART Talk program.
Conclusions:
- SMART Talk offers a viable approach to violence prevention by providing students with tools to manage anger and resolve conflicts.
- The program's multimedia, computer-based format can effectively engage young adolescents in learning crucial life skills.
- Violence prevention programs are warranted in schools with students exhibiting high rates of anger, aggression, and exposure to violence.