The Eighth Annual Conference, “Family Violence: Intervention and Prevention Strategies in a Diverse Society” , took place on Friday, May 7, 2004. Over three hundred psychologists, social workers, police officers and school counselors were in attendance. Information presented at the conference is available in our downloads section of the site. A Bullying Education event took place in Miami, Florida from November 4-7, 2003. Presentations and programs were conducted by Dr. Debra Pepler, a member of the Melissa Institute Scientific Board. Dr. Pepler is Professor of Psychology at York University, Toronto, Ontario and the Director of the Judy La Marsh Centre for Research on Violence and Conflict Resolution. She is a world renowned leader in the area of the developmental correlates of childhood aggression, victimization, bullying and school-based interventions. The first two days of presentations were designed for pediatricians, law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, and special minority high school students. The next two days of workshops were directed toward middle and elementary school students and their counselors. Dr. Pepler conducted the Third Annual Youth Conference on Bullying for students and counselors from nine middle schools. This year, the Institute expanded this student centered program by hosting the first Youth Conference on Bullying for elementary school students in the fourth and fifth grades. Nine Miami Dade County Public Schools participated. Student mediators from a nearby high school assisted the 90 elementary students with their group action plans. More than 50 counselors and school psychologists had the opportunity to observe and participate in this interactive forum for elementary student leaders. One of the key elements to reduce school bullying is the proactive involvement of student leaders and other peers. The Melissa Institute’s innovative approach seeks to train students and counselors to reduce the incidence of bullying at school, playground and off campus settings. You can download Dr. Pepler's Materials on Bullying from our 2003 Youth Conference. The sixth annual conference, "Anger Control and Aggressive Behaviors: A Life-Span Treatment Approach", was a huge success. Over 300 people attended presentations and workshops given by Dr. Donald Meichenbaum and Dr. James Larson. Thank you to all who helped to make this event the huge success that it was. Dr. Larson's handouts from our 2002 Anger Control and Aggressive Behaviors Conference are now available to download.       The Melissa Institute for Violence Prevention and Treatment 6250 Sunset Drive, Suite 204, Miami, FL 33143 | Phone 786.662.5210 | Fax 786.662.5211
	Home About Us Education Community Scholarships  Consultation  Events Calendar  Related Sites  How You Can Help Contact Us