NCJ Number
129507
Journal
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: (Fall 1988) Pages: 253-261
Date Published
1988
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The effectiveness of a videotape training program was compared to other methods of teaching children self-protection to prevent abduction.
Abstract
Four experimental conditions were presented to 29 kindergarten and 45 first-grade children: videotape with behavior rehearsal, videotape only, a standard safety program, and no training. Acquisition of self-protective behaviors was measured at posttraining and follow-up by employing confederate adults to entice the children at locations near their schools and homes. The videotape program with behavior rehearsal was highly effective in teaching children safe responses to potential abductors. The standard safety program was effective with fewer than half the children. Three-fourths of the children who failed to receive training immediately agreed to accompany the confederate adults. The videotape program can be used easily with groups of young children in a classroom setting. 2 figures and 32 references (Author abstract modified)