NCJ Number
160398
Date Published
1994
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The peer mediation program conducted in two elementary schools in Clark County (Nev.) during the 1993-94 school year was evaluated with respect to its operation, use, and impacts on student conflicts and the peer mediators.
Abstract
The Clark County Social Service Neighborhood Justice Center conducted the program under a Title XX grant from the State of Nevada. The two schools served children from kindergarten through grade five. Students who were trained as peer mediators helped resolve disputes between students on the playground, during lunch, and before school when the school buses arrived. Staff and students received training in conflict resolution theory and practice during the first semester. Peer mediators used a structured process to resolve conflicts on the school grounds during the second semester. Results revealed that the peer mediators mediated 184 conflicts and resolved 162 (88 percent) of them. Fifty-one percent of the conflicts involved rough play and pushing, 23 percent involved disagreements among friends, and 7 percent involved students spreading rumors about each other and calling each other names. Referrals came from faculty, staff, and disputants; the peer mediators also initiated mediations. The peer mediators increased their mediation skills, self-esteem, and assertiveness. The principals and program coordinators reported that the program had a significant impact on reducing conflict on the school grounds and increasing the social skills and self-esteem of the peer mediators. Tables and 3 references