Learning About Love: Healthy Relationship Education and Program Outcomes in Adolescents
Submission Type
Event
Faculty Advisor
Leah Nillas
Expected Graduation Date
2019
Location
Foyer, State Farm Hall, Illinois Wesleyan University
Start Date
4-13-2019 10:00 AM
End Date
4-13-2019 11:00 AM
Disciplines
Education
Abstract
Recent research has shown the unique influence of peer relationship on identity development in adolescents (McLean & Jennings, 2012; Nguyen, Cohen, & Hines, 2012). Although there is a lack of research on the developmental importance of adolescent romantic relationships, these relationships are expected to contribute significantly to shaping self-identity, maintaining socio-emotional health, and academic achievement (Caver, Joyner, & Urdy, 2003). Therefore, healthy adolescent romantic relationship is gaining interest among researchers and educators. This research synthesis examined 20 empirical papers on school-based healthy relationship education and analyzed their program evaluation findings under the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework. These findings were divided into categories following the main competencies identified in SEL: social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making to highlight the impact of healthy relationship programs on adolescence social development. Through this research synthesis, 6th-12th grade educators and administrators can advocate for an implementation or expansion of adolescence relationship education in their local schools using evidence of improvement in SEL competencies and reduction in teen dating violence.
Learning About Love: Healthy Relationship Education and Program Outcomes in Adolescents
Foyer, State Farm Hall, Illinois Wesleyan University
Recent research has shown the unique influence of peer relationship on identity development in adolescents (McLean & Jennings, 2012; Nguyen, Cohen, & Hines, 2012). Although there is a lack of research on the developmental importance of adolescent romantic relationships, these relationships are expected to contribute significantly to shaping self-identity, maintaining socio-emotional health, and academic achievement (Caver, Joyner, & Urdy, 2003). Therefore, healthy adolescent romantic relationship is gaining interest among researchers and educators. This research synthesis examined 20 empirical papers on school-based healthy relationship education and analyzed their program evaluation findings under the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework. These findings were divided into categories following the main competencies identified in SEL: social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making to highlight the impact of healthy relationship programs on adolescence social development. Through this research synthesis, 6th-12th grade educators and administrators can advocate for an implementation or expansion of adolescence relationship education in their local schools using evidence of improvement in SEL competencies and reduction in teen dating violence.