Do the Write Thing Violence Prevention Program: The Case of a Bordertown Middle School

• In Event: 31.091 - Fairmont Royal York Roundtable Session Five
  In Roundtable Session: 31.091-2 - Supporting Young Adolescents' Needs and Success in School

Abstract

This mixed methods case study focuses on one school’s experiences with Do the Write Thing (DtWT) Challenge, a national violence prevention program for middle schools. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior as a theoretical framework, we examined program impact and learning activities. Students in participating schools demonstrated significantly more positive attitudes toward behaviors to reduce violence and intentions to enact these behaviors than those in non-participating schools. Teachers reported that the program had a positive impact on both students and teachers. Classroom discussions about personal experiences with violence were rated as the most helpful activity and predicted several positive outcomes reported improved relationships with students. Results offer important implications for program design and continuing research

Authors

• Josefina V. Tinajero, The University of Texas - El Paso

• Cinthia Meraz Pantoja, El Paso Independent School District

• Sarah E. Peterson, University of Texas at El Paso