4. What Does Keepin’ It Real Stand For?
The “Real” in Keepin’ It Real is part of an acronym: Refuse, Explain, Avoid, and Leave. In a nutshell, “Real” stands for the four various ways that students can just say no when it comes to drugs. For example, a student can refuse the offer to have a cigarette and then leave the situation if their peer continues to pressure them.
“Real” gives students a different way to communicate than telling a friend “no” because it is harder for children to say “no” to each other. They have the choice to explain, or they can simply decide to avoid the situation or just leave. Schools also teach their students that the “Real” response can be used in other conditions that make them feel uncomfortable.