This study examined the effects of a student-mediated conflict
resolution program on
primary school (junior kindergarten to grade 5) playground aggression.
Mediation teams of
grade 5 students (approximately age 10) participated in 15 hours of training
according to the
model developed by Cunningham, Cunningham, and Martorelli (1997). Following
baseline
observations, mediation was introduced onto the playgrounds of three schools
according to
a multiple baseline design. Mediators successfully resolved approximately
90% of the
playground conflicts in which they intervened. Direct observations suggest
that the student
mediation program reduced physically aggressive playground behavior by
51% to 65%.
These effects were sustained at 1-year follow-up observations. Teacher
and mediator
satisfaction questionnaires provided strong support for impact, feasibility,
and acceptability
of this program.