In the aftermath of the tragic incident at Littleton, Colo., people continue to ask "why." As the story continues to unfold, keep in mind that Wayne State has several experts who can offer insights into child/adolescent behavior and prevention of violence in schools. Among these are the following faculty members:

Elizabeth Barton, assistant director of the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies, is a developmental psychologist who has worked on violence prevention programs with schools for several years. She notes that the demographics of southeast Michigan schools where she has worked are similar to those of Columbine High School.

Barton says that administrators in many places are of the mistaken mind-set that schools are naturally safe places, so they have not instituted preventive measures. Additionally, some teachers do not feel that conflict resolution programs are necessary and/or feel they do not have time for them. She can give examples of schools where "peer mediation" and other programs have reduced the number of confrontations among students. (Elizabeth Barton can be reached at (313) 577- 5367.)

· Rita Casey, director of WSU's Merrill-Palmer Institute, which engages in research and service to children and families, has extensive experience in the area of adolescent development and child behavior disorders. She is familiar with school culture, having worked as a university professor, researcher, counselor and administrator. She also is familiar with childhood behavior disorders, depression and post-traumatic stress. (Rite Casey can be reached at (313) 872-7290.)

· Thomas Kelley is an associate professor of criminal justice and a psychologist with a private practice. He is an expert on juvenile justice who has worked with children from inner city neighborhoods. The method that he advocates to bring out innate self-esteem and reduce violence among youths is being used successfully in places such as the Watts area of Los Angeles, Dade County, Fla., and the Bronx, N.Y. His popular book, Falling in Love with Life, shows how to use simple thought processes to bring peace of mind. He points out that the approach can be helpful for children as well as adults. Thomas Kelley can be reached at (248) 644-4909.

· Douglas Barnett is an associate professor of psychology. His specialties include clinical child psychology and developmental pathology. He can be reached at (313) 577-2958.

· Kathryn Urberg is a professor of psychology whose specialties include adolescent psychology and effects of peer pressure. She can be reached at (313) 577-2820.