NCJ Number
216713
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 21 Issue: 6 Dated: August 2006 Pages: 381-386
Date Published
August 2006
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study examined the impact of a theory-based school violence program based on optimistic bias.
Abstract
Results indicated that the program was successful in reducing optimistic bias and increasing knowledge regarding school violence among participants. Prior to the implementation of the school violence program, students believed that violence was less likely to occur to them personally and at their school when compared to other areas of the country. Survey results following the school violence program indicated a significant reduction in optimistic bias as well as a significant increase in knowledge concerning school violence. While the reduction of optimistic bias may not reduce school violence, it will at least encourage students to take self-protective measures and to recognize possibly dangerous situations. Participants were 1,000 students attending grades 7 through 12 in Allegheny County, PA who were exposed to a school violence awareness program. Participants completed surveys both before program entry and after program completion. Surveys focused on knowledge of school violence, optimistic bias concerning school violence, self-esteem, third-person perception, and perceived media reality. Zero-order correlations were used to analyze the data. Due to the effectiveness of the theory-based school violence program and the high marks it received from students, the authors encourage more research on this type of program. Table, references