In addition to completing their school assignments, students tackle a series of personal challenges while growing up. In some cases, youths may develop behavioral problems or make decisions that can lead to higher rates of absenteeism or suspensions.

However, programs that are focused on helping students build social, emotional and character skills may not only be effective, but also improve their quality of education, based on the results of a recent Oregon State University study.

Researchers from the institution conducted a study of 20 Hawaiian elementary schools, with half of the schools using these focused programs and the other half not. Participating teachers reported that the programs improved the overall quality of their schools by 21 percent.

The programs, which only took about an hour each week away from the participating schools’ traditional education, included organized activities designed to build character.

"Improved social and character skills leave more time for teachers to teach, and students to learn and be more motivated," said Brian Flay, a professor at the University’s School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences.

If parents feel their children have begun to display more troubling characteristics, they may want to have them complete a personality test.