Preventing violence and teaching peace : a review of promising and effective antiviolence, conflict-resolution, and peace programs for elementary school children.

As the prevalence and severity of youth violence have risen, so have programs aimed at preventing such violence. 30 programs are reviewed categorized as antiviolence, conflict-resolution, or peace-programs, based on goals, target skills, and theoretical constructs. Through empirical evaluations, programs are designated as either promising or effective. After considering the unique aspects of each program, five criteria are outlined to guide selection of the best violence-preventing programs for addressing theoretical foundations, comprehensive skills, diverse populations, diverse populations, teacher training, and children's self-worth. (A)