| The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of an intervention targeting relational aggression for young children. The intervention was adapted from Ostrov and colleagues (2009) Early Childhood Friendship Program and implemented over a six week time period to reduce relationally aggressive behaviors and increase prosocial behavior in a Head Start classroom. The first week of the intervention included an educational theatre performance by a local group, RESPECT. The following weeks involved direct instruction using puppets, modeling, role-playing, and time to practice with positive reinforcement. Data were collected using teacher report at the individual and classroom wide levels as well as direct observation. Results indicated a significant decrease at the individual child level for relational aggression and depressed affect. |
