Arkansas State University. (2014). The impact of Conscious Discipline training on adult perception, knowledge and skills. Unpublished research.
Type of report: Research report, descriptive non-experimental pre-/post-test
Summary: Arkansas State University present their findings from a 2014 pilot study. Their findings examine the impact of Conscious Discipline training on 1) adult perceptions and responses, 2) student self-control, initiative, changes in attachment/relationships and resiliency, and 3) school readiness.
Evidence/Findings: Using pre-test and post-test surveys for 359 teachers trained in Conscious Discipline (CD), researchers found that teachers who had a positive disposition towards the impact of CD on student behavior before the training continued to increase their positive perspective as their knowledge of CD increased. Teachers who began with a negative disposition decreased in their negative disposition of student behavior as knowledge of CD increased. Researchers also found that adults showed a significant positive shift towards using the CD intervention in response to conflict after training. The findings also show benefits for students. 486 students across 22 Pre-K sites receiving CD showed a 21-22% increase in self-control; i.e. the ability to express and manage behaviors in a healthy way. They also showed a 31-32% increase in initiative; i.e. the ability to use independent thoughts and actions to meet one’s own needs, a 24-27% increase in the ability to promote and maintain positive connections with other children and adults, as well as a 31-33% increase in resiliency and a 3-11% decrease in behavioral concerns. Lastly, using the Florida Assessment for Readiness Success (FLKRS) and the Early Childhood Observation System for Social-Emotional Development (ECHOS), researchers found that 66% children exposed to CD (N=949) were considered “kindergarten ready” compared to 53% of those not exposed to CD (N=6133). Using the FLKRS and Florida Assessment for Instruction in Reading (FAIR)and 81% of children exposed to CD were rated as having at least an 85% probability of reading success, compared to 51% of children those without CD.
Helpful Links
- Webinars: How Conscious Discipline Aligns with National Head Start Standards on Parent Education
- Knox County Head Start, Inc. 2016
- Head Start Conscious Discipline Alignment
- Conscious Discipline Improves SEL, School Climate, Readiness and Pro-Social Behavior
- Conscious Discipline Meets with Head Start Leadership
- Episode 001: Knox County Head Start is Building Bright Futures for Young Children AND Their Families
- A Conscious Approach to Self-Regulation: Knox County Head Start and the Conscious Discipline Program
- School District of Osceola County
Julie Ruffo
Julie Ruffo hails from the Washington, D.C. area and holds a degree in Corporate Media from James Madison University. She’s enjoyed an evolving role with Conscious Discipline since 1999, including contractor, Creative Director, Director of Publishing and Product Development, and Brand Manager. Julie is a steadfast behind-the-scenes force in the authoring, product development, messaging, and mission of Conscious Discipline. When she’s not glued to her laptop, she can be found with her toes in the sand of the Outer Banks, experimenting in the kitchen, screaming on a roller coaster, or planning the next family adventure.
