Be Strong: From the Inside Out
From the Inside Out is an asset-based, development program for young women that builds on concepts of womanhood, respect, and positive relationships as a strategy for health promotion and violence prevention. Be Strong curriculum consists of four empowerment modules which contain activities that enhance developmental assets and provide practical tools for self-discovery, critical thinking, problem solving, and decision-making.
The program objective is to help young women define and discover the kind of women they want to be while developing protective factors against violence and other unhealthy behaviors. It also provides a forum for young women to connect with one another, honor themselves, and create healthy relationships.
The curriculum includes four modules designed to engage every level of the social ecology and focusing on pro-social strategies for each level. The societal level module The Society Module includes a strong focus on media literacy and looks at the historical status and achievements of women, explores how patriarchy and sexism continue to operate via media representations, and finally identifies potential opportunities and challenges as young women plan for their future.
Be Strong was piloted and implemented in eight Los Angeles Unified School District schools during the 2008-9 school year. It is aligned with California Department of Education Academic Curriculum Standards and the 40 Developmental Assets for Adolescents (ages 12-18) identified by Search Institute. Also, the curriculum is evidence-informed by independent data analysis conducted by Harder+Co.
The Curriculum may be purchased online at www.peaceoverviolence.org. Please contact trina@peaceoverviolence.org for more information.
