Handbook of Social and Emotional Learning: Research and Practice [Paperback]

The burgeoning multidisciplinary field of social and emotional learning (SEL) now has a comprehensive and definitive handbook covering all aspects of research, practice, and policy. The prominent editors and contributors describe state-of-the-art intervention and prevention programs designed to build students' skills for managing emotions, showing concern for others, making responsible decisions, and forming positive relationships. Conceptual and scientific underpinnings of SEL are explored and its relationship to children's and adolescents' academic success and mental health examined. Issues in implementing and assessing SEL programs in diverse educational settings are analyzed in depth, including the roles of school- and district-level leadership, teacher training, and school-family partnerships.

"A very important volume for practitioners and policymakers. Until educators come to grips with the full meaning of SEL--its strong theoretical basis, the tools available for applying this knowledge in classrooms, and the very real impacts it produces for students--we will continue to see a disconnect between public education and the needs of the students and society it serves. This volume will be of tremendous use in graduate courses in teacher preparation, educational policy, assessment, school psychology, school counseling, leadership preparation, and program evaluation. Educators will do well to draw from the impressive evidence base and practical implications outlined throughout."--Robert C. Pianta, PhD, Dean, Curry School of Education, University of Virginia

"A masterpiece! Durlak and his colleagues have assembled the very best thinkers and writers in the broad field of SEL, and have created a volume that must be on the shelf of every researcher, educator, and student. It is not easy to bridge theory, empirical findings, and practice in this arena--let alone to cut across the silos of biology, psychology, and educl–