Viewpoints: A Guide to Conflict Resolution and Decision Making for Adolescents. . - book review

Adolescence, Fall, 2001

GUERRA. Nancy G., MOORE, Ann, & SLABY, Ronald G. Viewpoints: A Guide to Conflict Resolution and Decision Making for Adolescents. Champaign, IL: Research Press, 1995. 106pp. $13.95 (p).

This group training program is designed to teach social problem-solving skills, increase impulse control, promote empathy, and develop prosocial attitudes in adolescents. It has been shown to significantly reduce participants' aggression and antisocial behavior. Lessons involve reading, writing, and group discussion. Each lesson poses real-life problem situations that are interesting, relevant, and highly thought provoking. It covers topics such as peer pressure, drugs and alcohol, stress, fairness, and prejudice. The program has been field-tested for fifteen years in schools and juvenile correctional facilities. The teacher's guide (spiralbound, 28 pages. $8.95) includes lesson and discussion guidelines and troubleshooting and behavior management tips. It provides information on choosing participants for the group and selecting and training facilitators.