Initiative Description: Schools served as clusters and were randomly assigned to the School Psychiatric Consultation (SPC) condition, the Creating a Peaceful School Learning Environment (CAPSLE) condition. SPC- 3 child psychiatry residence delivered mental health consultation following the SPC manual for 4 hours 2x a week over the course of 2 school years. CAPSLE- a team drawn from school staff led implementation. In year 1, teachers received a day of group training while students received 9 sessions of self-defense training. The CAPSLE team consulted with school staff monthly. Year 2 began with a school-wide half day refresher training for all school staff and a 3 session refresher self-defense course, and consultation continued with counselors and teachers.

Study Results: Reduced children’s experience of aggression and victimization.

Reference: Fonagy, P., Twemlow, S. W., Vernberg, E. M., Nelson, J. M., Dill, E. J., Little, T. D., & Sargent, J. A. (2009). A cluster randomized controlled trial of child-focused psychiatric consultation and a school systems-focused intervention to reduce aggression. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry,50(5), 607-616. doi:10.1111/j.1469-7610.2008.02025.x

Level of Evidence: Excellent