bullying in schools

This approach is one that accounts for the context in which bullying often occurs and the school ecology that can contribute to its prevention . Although the data from this study fail to provide information on instances of bullying that occur within the lunchroom and playground contexts , accurate assessment of the school climate in these areas will presumably enhance the school 's ability to develop targeted interventions . As there is no definition of bullying provided in this article , future efforts should examine the extent to which changes in lunchroom and playground climate

are expected to influence bullying behaviors , separate and distinct from generally reducing student aggression

Orpinas , Horne , and Staniszewski

Developing empirically validated programs that effectively reduce school bullying is a challenge that many schools face . Orpinas , Home , and Staniszewski (2003 ) describe the development and evaluation of an innovative program designed to reduce bullying and victimization at the elementary school level . The program discussed is notable for its ability to garner commitment and cooperation from many members of the school community , specifically teachers . The authors identify staff collaboration , in conjunction with the comprehensive approach of the program , as the heart of its success . Although this program is effective at reducing aggression , as it is measured by the study 's self-report questionnaire , the program and the assessments used to evaluate the program do not target bullying independently from other forms of peer aggression . The program appears to successfully reduce aggressive behavior , but it is unclear how much of this behavior meets criteria for the hallmarks of bullying : intentionality , power imbalance , and repetition . The commitment and motivation of the school staff participant that was engendered by this approach is admirable and would certainly contribute to a program with the specific aim of reducing bullying behavior , as well

Limber and Small

Several state legislatures...