Character Education Update: Building a Buffer Against School Violence

Abstract

Character development is the foundation for the expected values and standards of behavior that enable an individual to be a healthy part of the society in which he lives. When coupled with moral standards and practice, it refers to what societies sanction as correct and acceptable for those inhabitants to adopt as meaningful and appropriate guidelines of behavior. This chapter examines character as it serves to provide a foundation in the school setting for appropriate and acceptable behavior. Guidance for teachers and instructors at all levels of education is provided along with information and resources on school-based prevention models aimed at character and moral education. Future directions in character education encourage healthy social communication, attitudes, and values consistent with self-respect and respect for others through the character growth and development of students.