The EQUIP Program for Educators: Its Effects on Cognition and Social Behavior

Abstract

Objective.
EQUIP for Educators (DiBiase et al., 2010) is an educational program, whose purpose is to equip
young people with skills and knowledge for their daily life in order to prevent antisocial behavior. The present
study aims at analyzing the effects of the program’s application on cognitive distortions, class climate and
students’ behavior in bullying situations.
Method.
A total of 123 3
rd
and 4
th
grade students from secondary
education participated. A quasi-experimental pretest/posttest design with a control group (128 students) was
used.
Results.
Positive changes were observed in students’ actions in bullying situations, however no changes
in cognitive distortions and perceived class climate were found after the program’s application.
Conclusion.
A
very positive perception of the class climate and the low level of cognitive distortions before the intervention
could explain the lack of effects, together with other aspects related to the implementation of the EQUIP for
Educators program.