Primary prevention: Educational approaches to enhance social and emotionallearning

The 1995 publication of Goleman's Emotional Intelligence triggered a revolu tion in mental health promotion. Goleman's examination of Gardner's work on multiple intelligences and current brain research, and review of successfu l programs that promoted emotional health, revealed a common objective amon g those working to prevent specific problem behaviors: producing knowledgea ble, responsible, nonviolent and caring individuals. Advances in research a nd field experiences confirm that school-based programs that promote social and emotional learning (SEL) in children can be powerful in accomplishing these goals. This article reviews the work of the Collaborative to Advance Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL), its guidelines for promoting mental health in children and youth based on SEL, key principles, and examples of exemplary programs.