1. Birgitta Kimber, Researcher Charli Eriksson, Professor - presenter School of Health and Medical Science Social and Emotional Learning a controversial issue in Sweden

2. Social and Emotional Learning The now widespread implementation of social and emotional learning (SEL) programs in Swedish schools has resulted in a variety of reactions. These programs are designed to promote student well-being, and raise issues relevant not only in Sweden but also internationally 3. Objectives To examine effects of Swedish social and emotional training (SET program) To analyze the controversies on the SEL programs 4. Results In general, SET was found to have moderate positive impacts on a range of emotional variables, reflecting aspects of mental health, and also a positive curvilinear relationship with social skills. Also, favorable trajectories were detected for some subgroups of SET students with regard to substance use. Swedish systematic reviews: SET has limited support 5. Impact of enhanced SEL meta-analysis Durlak et al Child Development, 2011; 82(1): 405-432. 213 school-based program, 270034 children 6. Scientific Issues Evidence-based practice Risk analysis: a strong foundation in international life-skills research Efficacy and effectiveness studies Attrition 7. Substantive Issues SET as therapy: whether social and emotional issues should be treated within structured, manual-based program, such as SET, or left to the individual teacher SET as a harmful intervention: negative impact of specific exercises and procedures (based on non-empirical speculations!) Reminder of bullying behavior Confidentiality and forced participation 8. SET in need of development While having a confidence in the capacity of teachers to handle social and emotional issues, SET still needs to be further developed, in particular through feedback, allocating a prominent role to school leaders, and evaluating training, fidelity and aspects of implementation. 9. Conclusions A balance is needed between the risks of harmful effects and of failing to achieve beneficial ones. Moreover, the participation of stakeholders of all kinds would be welcome in the development of programs of this kind.