AFAM 

AFAM or the Adolescent and Family Anger Management initiative utilizes the evidence based Aggression Replacement Training model to work with targeted youth and families in addressing problem behaviors (Goldstein, et. al., 1989; Goldstein, et. al., 1998; Moynahan & Stromgren, 2005).

Master trainers, certified by the International Center for Aggression Replacement Training, have worked with local staff to expand this cognitive model to include families as well as adolescents displaying problem behaviors (violence, drug abuse, lack of school success). Youth are referred by the local juvenile court and behavioral health providers.

A unique aspect of this approach is that family units attend group sessions together. Youth and parents practice and role play learned skills and coping mechanisms in separate youth and adult groups during the first part of a session, youth and parents then come together and role play as a family unit during the second part of the session. Training, including regular booster training, is funded by the Licking County Juvenile Court. Groups are conducted in multiple sites throughout Licking County by multiple providers. The local initiative has been in existence for over four years and a basic workshop and booster workshop for facilitators is scheduled for April of 2010.