ICPS is primarily a school-based intervention that trains children in generating a variety of solutions to interpersonal problems; thinking through the consequences of these solutions; and identifying thoughts, feelings, and motives that generate problem situations. The program aims to teach children how to think, rather than what to think, and as a result enhances children's social adjustment, promotes pro-social behavior, and decreases impulsivity and inhibition. ICPS is based in the theory that interpersonal cognitive problem solving skills mediate the emergence of interpersonal competence and protect against psychological dysfunction. Furthermore, a program to enhance these skills in children is believed to prevent the early emergence of high risk behaviors, or diminish them if they have already surfaced. ICPS has been replicated in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, Tennessee, and Michigan. The program has been selected by the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence for inclusion among its “Promising” programs. ICPS has also been designated by the U.S. Department of Education’s Safe, Disciplined, and Drug-Free Schools Expert Panel as a Promising Program for 2001; and has been selected by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) for inclusion in its "best practice" family strengthening programs for 1999 as an Exemplary II program.

Target Population

- Grade Level: from  Preschool to  Sixth grade