Jacques Benninga, Ph.D., is a professor of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at California State University, Fresno (CA), and director of the university’s Bonner Center for Character Education and Citizenship. He teaches classes in educational psychology and early education, and he researches and writes about issues related to the moral development and character education of children.

We asked Dr. Benninga whether kids’ behaviors are better or worse than before, how to overcome the challenges of implementing character education, and if adults and teachers are good role models.

CHARACTER COUNTS!: Josephson Institute’s recent survey of high school students revealed an increase in cheating, lying, and stealing, yet 93 percent of respondents said they were satisfied with their personal ethics and character. What do you make of that?
Jacques Benninga: One important aspect is that standards for youth behaviors are not made clear to them by adults. Teens see their role models engaging in frivolous, non-committed relationships, being arrested for careless or violent acts, and circumventing laws. This sends a message that it’s okay not to adhere to societal standards.