Advancing Independent Minds (AIM)

Program Description

Advancing Independent Minds (AIM) is a component program of ELECT, an initiative of the Pennsylvania Departments of Public Health and Public Welfare. A bstinence E ducation and R elated S ervices (AERS) is administered locally in a collaborative effort of the School District of Philadelphia, the Center for Schools and Communities, and CISP.

AIM is a program for middle school students that primarily focuses on the presentation and promotion of abstinence as a desirable lifestyle choice. Given the delicate nature of personalities and relationships within this preteen population, great care is taken in both instructional materials, and teaching methods to promote positive attitudes toward abstinence.

AIM seeks to discourage risky behaviors by teaching students how to cope with and resist peer pressures and negative social influences. This is accomplished through a three-pronged approach based on emotional cognitive, and social skill.

Program Specifics

AIM program material is presented in a contextual manner; that is, different aspects and perspectives as part of a larger picture. The following are some of the interrelated subject areas:

• Family Values
• Self-Esteem, optimism and goal setting
• Peer influence and media messages
• Potential consequences of adolescent relationships

As for methods, a number of techniques are employed and a variety of community resources are used:

• Individual and group counseling, and if necessary individual case management
• Mentoring and/or academic tutoring to support and empower the most at-risk students
• Role Playing and peer leadership exercises
• Presentations by high school students participating in the Teen Health Corps program, as well as students from the ELECT Pregnant and Parenting Teen Centers, discussing a range of health issues, particularly those associated with pregnancy and abstinence
• Presentations by community service providers and abstinence-only advocates