Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

["Kaplan, Claire (cnk2r)" <>]

Hi Adia,
We've had "problem" peer educators as well.  What I've found is that the most 
problematic folks are often bringing their own history into the group, and in 
their cases, it is disruptive, alienating, etc. etc.  Plus they can't be 
trusted not to say alarming things during educational programs.  From my 
years of doing this work, I've learned that direct intervention is absolutely 
necessary and in the best interest of all parties.  Problematic students are 
not served well by being allowed to continue on when they may need help as 
well.  But I do believe it would require an authority figure to do this--such 
as yourself, rather than, say, the chair of the organization.  Be up front 
with the issues, and ask if there's anything going on that's difficult for 
them.  Suggest that this might not be the best place for them to do their 
work, but also be willing to talk with them privately if they need it.  I've 
often found that issues of victimization emerge in these conversations, which 
then lead to referrals to counseling.  If not, at least there's peace in your 
group.  Lastly, just because someone is working for free doesn't mean they 
shouldn't be fired for doing a lousy job, as long as they are given a chance 
to improve first.
Claire



Claire N. Kaplan, Ph.D.
Director, Sexual & Domestic Violence Services
Manager, Sexual Assault Program Coordinators List
UVA Women's Center
PO Box 800588
Charlottesville VA 22908-0588
http://womenscenter.virginia.edu/sdvs
434-982-2774 / 434-982-2361


-----Original Message-----
From: Adia N Daniels 
[mailto:]
Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2008 11:48 AM
To: 
;
 VDHsvlist
Subject: Peer Ed Question


Hi,

I help coordinate a fairly new peer education program at ODU.  We've just
come across some potential issues with one of our newly trained peer
educators, and were wondering based on your experiences in your own
offices, on what grounds do you remove someone from the group?  Do you use
some type of ground rules/agreement to begin with?  I'd appreciate any
feedback you can give.  I can also give you more information if needed.
You can respond to me directly at 
.
  Thanks!

Adia Daniels
SAFE Program Graduate Assistant
Women's Center
1000 Webb Center
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA 23529
(757) 683-4109
www.odu.edu/womenscenter