Overcoming Bullying to Create Positive Change in 3 Steps
The long-term effects bullying can have on students is not news to many – it can lead to a higher risk of depression, obesity, substance abuse and more. To stop bullying in its tracks and to prevent these long-term effects, a professor from the Educational Psychology department at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, suggests the following three steps:
- Reporting Incident: Allowing students who are bullied, bystanders and even bullies to be able to report their incidents is powerful because it gives them a voice. Moving away from the traditional “tell a teacher” model and toward an online format allows students to submit reports anytime and anywhere.
- Reviewing Incidents: When one or more administrators are designated to review submitted reports, there will be a consistent process for reviewing, validating and documenting an incident. This process can pinpoint insight into school climate and hot topics that require further attention.
- Resolving Incidents: Districts should use evidence-based resolution tactics. With the correct guidance, resolved bullying incidents can serve as teachable moments and deter future negative behavior.
WORKS’ Student Bullying & Violence Prevention Program (SBVPP) provides staff and student training, reporting tools, written plans and more to help your district implement and sustain a comprehensive bullying prevention program. To learn more about how your district could benefit from the SBVPP, email us today.