NCJ Number
165049
Date Published
1995
Length
46 pages
Annotation
Evaluation literature on education programs designed to change the knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of youth is reviewed to aid the development of the Canada Department of Justice's crime prevention component of its community safety and crime prevention initiative.
Abstract
Programs reviewed included 17 programs for youth in school; these used seven behavior modification approaches: social pressure resistance, heightened awareness, empowerment, social skills development, psychosocial, bonding, and health belief. Three programs for youth out of school were also reviewed; these all used a social pressure resistance skills strategy to behavior modification. Eight adult behavior modification programs using experimental learning, clinical developmental, and showmen routine approaches were also reviewed. The analysis indicated that the first steps to take when developing a behavior modification program are to consider the source, the message, the channel, and the receiver. In addition, persuasion requires considering the target group, age, cognitive components, instructor training, peer leaders, audience interaction, peer pressure resistance skills, and followup sessions. Furthermore, two studies suggest that ages 12-14 are the most appropriate for implementing a behavior modification program due to youths' vulnerability to adapt unhealthy coping strategies to address personal and family stress and peer pressure. Annotated lists of programs reviewed and sources of general information