What does this mean for schools?
Researchers now recognise that individuals and groups can be powerful moderators of behaviour. Many schools are now looking at ways of engaging the power of the group to be proactive in preventing bullying and to intervene when it occurs by:
- building the responsibility and capacity of everyone in the school community ( students, staff and parents) to respond to bullying behaviour by not remaining silent
- talking about the issue and working together to create a school environment that is safe and supportive for everyone
- 'sticking up' for others and challenging prejudice and 'put-down' attitudes
- identifying where the school may be more effective in preventing bullying behaviour through systems, structures and policies, teaching practices and curriculum
- ensuring that curriculum as well as behaviour management approaches consider the complexity of power and group dynamics.
All members of school communities can be motivated, supported and involved more constructively to help stop bullying behaviour.
Social awareness increases our motivation to challenge apathy, resist peer pressures and be effective bystanders. Schools are especially important in supporting a shift in individuals and the community from not taking action, to being engaged, proactive and effective in making change. This means involving all staff, students and parents in learning about the underlying causes of bullying in promoting a positive school climate and preventative strategies.
Prevention is the most important facet and it's for everyone, all the time.
For more information on Bullying. No way!
Deeper issues builds knowledge to help recognise, challenge and change the underlying factors that fuel bullying, harassment and discrimination in society.
Ideas box
The Ideas box has a range of ideas about how to be a supportive school.
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