Literary Project

PURPOSE AND GOAL STATEMENT

PROBLEM STATEMENT:

Violence in our schools and communities today is reported and in the press. In a non-threatening environment, adolescents need to be able to express their feelings and give us their take on the crisis.

GOAL:

The goal of the literary project is to render a service to the youth of our communities that will encourage students’ thinking about the issues that affect them and their community. In particular, it is designed to create and enhance an overall awareness in students that violent/destructive talk can lead to consequential action.

The literary project can be used as a primary prevention strategy for violence prevention; can bring opportunity to demystify mental illness, its treatment and prevention; and can increase mental health literacy within our communities.

PURPOSE:

The purpose is to create a positive atmosphere for open communication between adolescents and trusted adults.

Youth are encouraged to seek assistance from a trusted adult and to understand that violent/destructive talk can lead to poor choices of behavior. In order to write on the topic, students have to confront harsh truths and explore a high level of ethical behavior.

OUTCOME:

Writing is a thoughtful, reflective process and as such can lead to an awareness of the idea that to “tell” is OK, is acceptable and necessary when violent/destructive talk is overheard.

“Secrets” challenges adolescents’ sense of immortality and gives permission to break a confidence when the confidence is life threatening. It is a tool that school educators and other adults can use to model appropriate disclosure skills. Educators of all kinds can work hand-in-hand with students through this process, at the same time enhancing a youth culture to promote acceptance, moral/civil obligations and to empower youth to support their peers.