Despite increasing education-related litigation activity (and costs) since 1960, the model for preventing such lawsuits has remained unchanged since then. Although administrative knowledge and competent legal counsel are critical to any district's effective operation, a middle- or high-school teacher's lack of knowledge, expertise, and experience…

The reliability of the "What If" Situations Test was studied to determine its utility as an evaluation tool for young children (N=406), which would provide a measurement tool with demonstrated psychometric properties for evaluating child sexual abuse-prevention programs. Advantages and limitations of the measure are presented and…

Argues that schools can and should play a critical role in stemming youth violence and describes the Resolving Conflict Creatively Program, a program that schools can use in creating safe, caring communities of learning for children. It shows how the ability to manage emotions, resolve conflict, and interrupt biases are skills that can be taught…

Describes the methods, materials, and process of a curriculum and group work model that provides an alternative approach for addressing academic and social skills developments. Provides a theoretical framework, including baseline data, an overview of learning theory, and a brief cultural history. The group itself focused on members' strengths.…

This study uses 312 college students cited for under-aged drinking to replicate and validate the College Alcohol Problem Scale (CAPS). Findings demonstrate close replication in factor structure and internal consistency ratings. Subscale factors were covalidated with a measure of heavy/peak drinking. Discusses suggestions for utilizing CAPS in…

Surveys alcohol and drug-use behaviors in relation to HIV/AIDS risk among 212 youth in dropout-prevention programs. Alcohol and drug use and age of sexual initiation are significantly associated with high risk. HIV/AIDS-prevention programs need to target alcohol and drug use as important influences on risky sexual behavior. (MKA)

Presents six myths of suicide are discussed. Risk factors, methods of detection of suicidal behavior, intervention techniques, and prevention of adolescent suicide. Characteristics of school-based suicide-prevention programs and appropriate teacher interventions are presented. A list of warning signs and two "no suicide" contracts are…

Utilizes three broad age categories to provide a general overview of the characteristics of conceptions of violence for children. Describes general characteristics of children's thought processes and provides specific information regarding children's conceptions of violence. Argues that knowledge regarding how children at different developmental…

Collaborating with school officials, a group of concerned parents implemented a bully-proofing program throughout their school district. After two years, the results are encouraging; it was received with enthusiasm at the elementary level. Further study will be needed to determine how these principles might be applied at the secondary level. (MKA)

Describes the Piscataway Project, a school-based action research project focused on development, implementation, and evaluation of instructional approaches to violence prevention. Discusses challenges associated with school-based prevention efforts. Stresses the importance of theory for prevention efforts, and how critical delivery and training…

Describes the School Transitional Environment Project and its successor, the Project on High Performance Learning Communities, that have contributed to building a model for school improvement called the High Performance Learning Communities. The model seeks to build the principles of prevention into whole school change. Presents findings from…

Provides an introduction to the research base for violence prevention as well as an introduction to comprehensive school-based planning for violence prevention. Addresses the role of the school counselor in facilitating such a planning process, particularly the role of collaborative consultant to initiate this process in the community. (Contains…

Presents data on methamphetamine use in the United States and the economic and social pressures that may partially explain expanded methamphetamine use. Recommends a policy response that utilizes a public health approach, including prevention campaigns, harm-reduction outreach and treatment approaches, and pharmacologic and abstinence-based drug…

Identifies associations between lack of formal boater training, drinking and boating, and other unsafe boating practices. Results of a survey of 3,042 boaters reveals an unexpected association between formal training and unsafe boating practices. Highlights the inadequacies of boater training programs and urges that training should address the…

Reviews the prevalence of suicide among older people in the United States and how it has changed over time. Considers the characteristic intent and implementation of suicidal behavior, and reviews literature on risk factors. Discusses training primary care providers to recognize high-risk, isolated older people. Provides recommendations concerning…