This study examined the impact of implementing Second Step, a violence prevention program, using a comprehensive, city-wide approach. The evaluation included 741 3rd–5th graders in six schools. Student surveys, behavioral observations, and discipline referrals were used to assess aggressive-antisocial and prosocial behaviors. We found significant improvements in positive approach-coping, caring-cooperative behavior, suppression of aggression, and consideration of others, but no changes in aggressive-antisocial behaviors. Behavioral observations and disciplinary referrals showed no significant changes. The program was implemented with high fidelity and engaged a wide range of participants from the community.
Editors’ Strategic Implications: Key implementation issues are presented for a cross-site, city-wide evaluation on “Second Step.” School and community officials will benefit from these lessons, as well as the authors’ recommendations for further longitudinal study with appropriate comparison groups.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to thank the students, teachers, parents, administrators and staff of the Meriden, CT, school system for their generous participation in this project and continued commitment to the Second Step program. Funding for this program was received from the Meriden school board and the US Department of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, grant number 5 U79 SMS53633.
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Cooke, M.B., Ford, J., Levine, J. et al. The Effects of City-Wide Implementation of “Second Step” on Elementary School Students’ Prosocial and Aggressive Behaviors. J Primary Prevent 28, 93–115 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10935-007-0080-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10935-007-0080-1