Supporting teens against gang experiences (stage): a program for gang affiliated high school teens and teens at risk

The purpose of this project is to create a 14-week-long, small-group counseling program for high school teens who are gang affiliated and/or at risk. Often, high school teens experience trauma related to several risk factors that can lead to developmental issues, non-pursuance of higher education, and disengagement in future career success. The main facilitator of this program will be the high school counselor, who will focus on cognitive behavioral theory and techniques that can help reduce gang affiliation and increase high education. During the program, teens will learn about: gang involvement, trauma and reactions to trauma, the application of the cognitive behavioral model, affective education and social life coping skills. Additionally, a college representative will be part of the program to provide presentations and facilitate discussions to promote higher education and community resources. The end purpose for teens participating in the program is to aid in their creation of a personal narrative centered on their experiences, both emotional and gang-related. Teens will learn the necessary life skills to defeat the gang experience and incorporate student success at a higher rate.