Abstract
This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Early Risers “Skills for Success” Program when implemented by neighborhood family resource centers available to urban children and their families. Kindergarten and first-grade children (n=327) enrolled in 10 schools were screened for aggressive behavior, and randomized to two model variations of the Early Risers Program or a no-intervention control condition. The full-strength model (CORE + FLEX) included child and parent/family components whereas the partial model (CORE-only) offered only the child component. The intervention was delivered over two continuous years. CORE + FLEX children showed higher levels of program attendance than their CORE-only counterparts but no differences on outcomes measures were observed between models. When both program models were collapsed and compared to controls, program children showed significant gains on measures of school adjustment and social competence, the most aggressive program children showed reductions in disruptive behavior, and program parents reported reduced levels of stress.
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August, G.J., Lee, S.S., Bloomquist, M.L. et al. Dissemination of an Evidence-Based Prevention Innovation for Aggressive Children Living in Culturally Diverse, Urban Neighborhoods: The Early Risers Effectiveness Study. Prev Sci 4, 271–286 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1026072316380
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1026072316380