RESPECT was written for girls, but the book can teach all teens (and adults) how to build mutual respect. Here's how to use the book in the classroom or workshops for teens:

1. Build Self-Respect
Use The 7 Respect Basics to show teens how respect is connected to everything—from their choices to how they feel about themselves to their future success.

2. Foster Mutual Respect
Help students set higher standards for how to give and get respect using the do's and don'ts in Chapter 1. Also, work with students to create respect pacts for their classrooms (see Chapters 6 and 11).

3. Encourage Healthy Choices
Mentor teens about how to make self-respecting choices that honor their values, gut instincts, and boundaries. Chapters 1 through 3 and 8 are perfect for class discussions on how the mind-body connection contributes to a teen’s overall success and sense of self-worth.

4. Teach Media Literacy
Have a class discussion about media myths and stereotypes that fuel disrespect and gender inequality. Use activities from the "Take Back the Media" section in Chapter 4.

5. Promote Equal Rights
Advance equality and self-respect starting with a discussion of "Your Rights" and "Inside the –isms" (see Chapter 1). "REtroSPECT" sidebars throughout the book are also handy civil rights summaries that are great for kick-starting broader discussions.

6. End Sexual Harassment and Bullying
Set the tone for mutual respect by discussing with students the effects sexual harassment and bullying. Inform students about your school’s anti-harassment policy. Chapter 11 offers steps students can take to report harassment and to promote a safe learning environment for all.

7. Raise Awareness About Abuse and Dating Violence
Use the clear definitions and examples of abuse in Chapter 9, to discuss the effects of abuse and how students can get help, report crimes, or support a friend. Also discuss the difference between disrespectful and healthy relationships as described in Chapters 5 and 7.

8. Sponsor Self-Defense
To decrease violence, bullying and abuse, help teens learn how to de-escalate situations, how to defend themselves, and how to get help. Share the tips and strategies in Chapter 10. Also use the evidence presented to lobby your school to teach self-defense techniques in P.E. class.

9. Inspire Political Action
Using Chapter 12, you can show teens how to take action to spread respect and become future leaders. Teachers can supplement government and history lesson plans with activities listed in "Make Your Voice Heard" such as how to write letters to lawmakers or start a campaign for change.

10. Advocate Getting Help
Referencing "Help!" sidebars throughout the book, you can encourage teens to get help when it comes to dating violence, eating disorders, abuse, harassment, or everyday dilemmas they're going through. Teach students how to find reliable support and resources using the "More Info" section (page 204) as a guide.

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llustration by Catherine LePage © Free Spirit Publishing Inc. 2005

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