SUGGESTIONS FOR BUILDING ASSETS

Asset # 36- Peaceful Conflict Resolution

(Young people can effectively say no to the things that might harm them)

To Build Asset # 36 Parents and Extended Family Can . . .

* ALWAYS role model non-violence. Take a time-out when you are very angry so that you do not act violently.

* Use time-outs instead of spanking. Teach kids we all need a cooling off time sometimes, and that as they grow up, they learn how to give themselves a time-out when needed. Teach your kids it's OK to be angry, as long as you can take it out in acceptable ways, like exercising.

* Teach the definitions of "passive," "aggressive," and "assertive." Help children learn assertiveness skills and other ways to reduce conflict, like humor.

* Talk with family members about caring, courage, forgiveness, justice, and unity. Discuss what these values mean for choosing how we handle conflict.

* When your children have a conflict, guide them through resolving it. Don't just separate the children or decide the solution yourself. Help them stop, define the conflict to each other with respectful language, brainstorm ways to resolve it, choose a solution that is agreeable to both parties, and move on.

* Have consequences for violent behavior, and enforce the consequences.

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44% of youth surveyed by Search Institute have this asset in their lives.*

*Based on Search Institute surveys of almost 100,000 6th to 12th grade youth throughout the United States