A Virtues Based Behavioral Modification Program

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a behavior program based on a student’s innate character traits and virtues would positively affect his/her actions and academic performance. The treatment is based on an international program called The Virtues Project. The measurement was based on the students’ grades as well as the number of office referrals given for negative behaviors as outlined by the school’s student handbook. This study was performed as an action research with a pretest/posttest design where the subjects’ performance was measured prior to the study and then again after the study to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. Achievement gains were significant in both academic success as well as stemming negative behaviors. Given the success of this limited study, research in the area of teaching students how to overcome obstacles they encounter in their day to day lives should continue on a broader scale.