NCJ Number
181954
Date Published
2000
Length
51 pages
Annotation
The traditional stories in this book were chosen specifically because they contain lessons that help young people between 11 and 14 years of age deal with some of the main issues confronting them; the lessons are designed to improve their social and emotional competence.
Abstract
The goal of the lessons is to prevent drug use and violent behavior. Benefits of using story-telling as a prevention tool include helping youth bond to positive forces in their lives, developing problem-solving skills, and understanding and respecting diversity. The stories are intended to help middle school students see how choices they make, both positive and negative, affect what happens to them and those around them. The stories recognize young people need a variety of skills to deter delinquent behavior, including self-control, listening, and concentration skills and how to avoid being provoked in anger. In addition, the stories recognize young people need help in developing social awareness and group participation skills, such as accepting praise and approval, choosing caring friends, refusing to participate in delinquent behavior, and knowing when to ask for help. Issues covered by the stories encompass bullying, community service, conflict resolution, peer pressure, and listening to parents. References and illustrations