[Evaluation of a program designed to develop social competence in kindergarten children].
This paper presents an evaluation of the implementation and impact of a program promoting social competence among kindergarten children. This program was conducted experimentally in 8 schools (10 classrooms, n = 165) in Montreal; 5 classrooms (n = 74) from 5 other schools formed the control group. Analysis of the impact reveals significant gains in self-esteem and conflict resolution skills in the experimental group compared to the control group. However, there was no significant change in pro-sociality and social withdrawal. Finally, an unexpected result was found in the area of boys' aggression. Analysis of the implementation indicates that teachers found the program's activities easy to use and adapt. In addition, great diversity in the utilization of these activities was observed. These results lead to areas of discussion concerning: (a) the links between gains realized by children and the emphasis teachers place on some aspects of the program; (b) the development of social competence among preschoolers; (c) the evaluation of the this type of program.
Bélanger
J
J
Université de Montréal. jbelange@santepub-mtl.qc.ca
Bowen
F
F
Rondeau
N
N
D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010553:Personality Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012649:Self Concept; D012917:Social Adjustment