Recorded presentation

Lynne M. Lang, MHM, School Outreach & Youth Development, BJC HealthCare, Mailstop 90-94-205, 600 S. Taylor Ave. Suite 124, St. Louis, MO 63110, 314-286-0504, lml1435@bjc.org

More than 160,000 children stay home from school daily because they are afraid of someone in their school. Research has proven the link between low level aggression in young children and adult criminal behavior. In addition, bullying in young children is linked to the continuing cycle of domestic violence. BJC HealthCare has successfully partnered with schools throughout Missouri and Illinois to show a reduction in bullying behaviors in more than 50,000 children since 1999. "Buddies" is a 4-week curriculum that teaches empathy and develops social skills for grades 3-8. Students, teachers, and counselors are successfully changing the culture of schools where it is implemented. Pre- and Post-test results show both knowledge and behavior changes. Results show that 99% of students think the program should continue in their buildings, and knowledge improvements show an impressive overall 60% gain. Self-reported behavior changes are noted, such as recognizing and reducing bullying behaviors. Students can demonstrate their ability to peacefully solve problems when participating in "Buddies." Teacher evaluations show 100% satisfaction in results. The demand is great for this program because it offers tools for ongoing violence reduction in classrooms. The unique partnership with area schools and our hospital organization has been a success story of its own. Developing community alliances can reduce the risk for students, while showing how hospitals can invest in community health and prevention education.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to

• Define bullying, and identify types and degrees of bullying observed in schools
• Describe how "Bullies to Buddies" has been a successful violence prevention program reducing bullying in Missouri and Illinois schools.
• Discuss strategies proven to empower students as change agents in reducing violence.
• List ways to create community partnerships between health care providers and school districts.

Keywords: Violence Prevention, Education

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: BJC HealthCare School Outreach & Youth Development
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment

Recorded presentation