The rules for engagement have changed and this program explores how to best handle bullies and protect victims without getting hurt. Teens learn how to recognize potentially dangerous situations and avoid violence by reasonably predicting the consequences of their actions. Whether you call it dissing, busting, capping or snapping, showing disrespect is probably the most common source of conflict and violence in the teen years. Discussion centers on how to handle perceived disrespect in potentially violent situations, and how a positive self-image can provide the confidence and composure to ignore insults and walk away from threatened violence. Discussion outlines typical types of harassment and abuse which occur in the teen years, and successful strategies for dealing with verbal and physical attacks.
Teens learn how to say no to abuse and the importance of building healthy positive relationships.
Nothing can fan the flames of teen violence like the mistrust and conflicts which result from racial divisions. Bridging Racial Divisions explores the painful personal consequence of racial conflicts as teenagers from different racial groups come together to discuss the stereotypes and prejudice that divide them. Triggers to violence such as racial slurs and graffiti are examined, and teenagers are encouraged to value diversity and build communication across racial and ethnic lines. Teenagers are challenged to decide what they would do if a close friend wanted them to do something wrong, illegal, or dangerous, and are asked to examine the types of friendships they are making. The meanings of true friendship and the value of positive peer pressure are highlighted as ways to make good friends and stay out of trouble.