Many youth programs focus primarily on raising self-esteem, but our approach takes a different, foundational perspective: teaching young people the basics of healthy relationships. In a world where most kids learn about relationships through media—often saturated with unhealthy dynamics—they are left without any clear instruction on what constitutes relationship health. This lack of understanding leaves them vulnerable to abusive relationships because they don’t recognize grooming behaviors or understand how abuse is progressive. Abusers rarely start with overt violence; instead, they begin with subtle tactics that escalate over time. Through this project, students will create a measurable, preventative program that helps youth recognize and resist coercive and abusive behaviors, empowering them to protect themselves and foster healthier relationships.

Outcomes:

1. Objective Measurement of Learning: Develop a pre- and post-test "Agency Calculator" to measure shifts in students’ understanding of healthy relationships, grooming behaviors, and progressive abuse after completing the program.
2. Practical Curriculum for Educators: Produce a detailed, ready-to-use 8-hour lesson plan that youth educators can implement, complete with real-life examples, activities, and clear teaching instructions.

Possible Deliverables:

1. "Agency Calculator" Pre- and Post-Test:

• Create test questions based on the provided curriculum concepts to assess students’ baseline knowledge and their growth after the program.
• Include diverse question types (e.g., multiple choice, scenario-based, short answer) to capture nuanced understanding.

1. Youth Educator Curriculum Plan:

• Design an 8-hour structured curriculum that clearly breaks down each session into teaching objectives, activities, and materials.
• Incorporate relatable examples and scenarios tailored to the youth audience, ensuring the lessons resonate with their lived experiences.

1. Supplementary Materials for Youth Educators:

• Develop handouts, worksheets, or visual aids to support key teaching points.
• Include an easy-to-follow guide for educators to help them confidently deliver the program, even with minimal preparation.

1. Program Guide for Youth Instructors:

• Include clear step-by-step instructions on how to facilitate discussions, introduce key concepts, and manage sensitive topics related to coercive control and grooming.

1. Feedback Integration Plan:

• Outline a system for youth educators to provide feedback on the curriculum and tests, ensuring continuous improvement based on real-world implementation.