This article reports on an evaluation of the impact of a computer-based intervention (SMART Talk) that contains some theoretically driven anger-management and conflict-resolution modules.
A total of 558 middle school students were randomly assigned by academic teams to either an intervention or control group. Assessments were completed before and after implementation. MANCOVA was used to assess differences between the two groups on self-awareness, attitudes toward violence, self-efficacy, intentions to use nonviolent strategies, and aggressive behavior. The intervention was successful in diminishing student beliefs supportive of violence and increasing their intentions to use nonviolent strategies. No outcome differences were found for gender, race, or eligibility for free or reduced lunch (a measure of socioeconomic status). The article advises that SMART Talk might be useful in changing some of the mediating factors associated with violence and might have the potential for changing violent behavior. (publisher abstract modified)