Positive Action for Middle School

https://www.positiveaction.net

Initiative Description: Positive Action for middle school (grades 6-8): consists of brief lessons (approximately 15 min) taught two or three days a week by classroom teachers. Most schools implemented PA during social studies or health classes. Intervention teachers had an “excellent implementation record.” [the typical level of implementation is approximately 25 lessons per year] In years 2 and 3, teachers implementing PA received a $50 incentive each month if lesson goals were met. supplemental materials: PA Climate Kits, PA Counselor Kits. Results indicated improved self-esteem and reduced disruptive behaviors.

Study Results: Reduced disruptive behavior & improved self-esteem.

Reference: Guo, S., Wu, Q., Smokowski, P., Bacallao, M., Evans, C., & Cotter, K. (2015). A longitudinal evaluation of the positive action program in a low-income, racially diverse, rural county: effects on self-esteem, school hassles, aggression, and internalizing symptoms. Journal of Youth & Adolescence, 44(12), 2337-2358. doi:10.1007/s10964 015-0358

Level of Evidence: Good