CONTENTS

About This Course

Table of Contents

1. School Bullying: What It Is and Why It Hurts
2. The Role of Bullies, Victims, and Witnesses
3. Factors Contributing to Bullying and Violence
4. Screening and Assessment
5. Treatment For Children and Adolescents
6. Prevention and Intervention
7. Legal and Ethical Issues

Supplements
Case Studies
Fact Sheets
References
Resources

The ABCs of Bullying
Addressing, Blocking, and Curbing School Aggression

Module Descriptions

Module 1 - School Bullying: What It Is and Why It Hurts

This introductory module provides a brief discussion of bullying so readers can understand the severity of bullying, the short- and long-term consequences of bullying, and the benefit of community-wide prevention efforts.

Module 2 - The Role of Bullies, Victims, and Witnesses

Direct bullying information in this module is explored with greater depth and detail. Readers will learn the characteristics of children involved in bullying, methods used in bullying, the effect of bullying on the bully, victim and witness, as well as popular myths regarding bullying.

Module 3 - Factors Contributing to Bullying and Violence

This module discusses bullying in the larger context of the child's world - including his or her family and community. Psychosocial and other factors relating to aggressive behavior are discussed, as well as protective factors that help promote resiliency.

Module 4 - Screening and Assessment

Screenings and assessments are used in elementary and middle schools to examine areas such as physical health, mental and emotional health, and behavioral problems. Readers will learn important techniques when talking with kids, as well as the common issues found during the elementary and middle school years. Sample screening and assessment tools also are provided.

Module 5 - Treatment for Children and Adolescents

There are different theoretical and treatment approaches that mental health professionals can use when working with children who are involved in bullying or other forms of victimization. This module examines some of those perspectives and clinical interventions, as well as highlighting play therapy with children.

Module 6 - Prevention and Intervention

Successful bullying intervention must be comprehensive throughout the entire school and neighboring community. This module highlights specific bullying prevention strategies for schools, teachers, parents and mental health professionals. Brief highlights of prevention programs are included at the end.

Module 7 - Legal and Ethical Issues

Federal and State laws have been enacted to ensure equal and safe learning environments for students across the country. Some of these laws are discussed, and some State laws specifically pertaining to bullying are highlighted. Issues of confidentiality and informed consent also are touched on.