incidences of bullying among children - PAWS

4 THE TEACHERS, SCHOOLS, AND SOCIETY READER
clear that such behavior is unacceptable. Teachers can show
the bully alternate ways to talk, interact, and negotiate; at
the same time, they can encourage victims to assert themselves.
By doing so, the teacher is showing the bully and the
victim that action is being taken to stop the bullying.
Acting promptly can prevent the bullying from escalating.
When interacting with children on a one-on-one basis,
teachers should provide encouragement that acknowledges
specific attributes, rather than dispensing general praise, approval,
or admiration (“I am so glad that you have done a
great job; it is wonderful; yours is one of the best projects”)
that may appear to be contrived. Expressions of specific encouragement
(“You seem to be pleased and very interested
in your project, and it appears you have worked on it for
many days and used many resources to find answers to your
questions”), as opposed to general praise, are descriptive,
sincere, take place in private, focus on the process, and help
children to develop an appreciation for their efforts and
work. While developing children’s self-esteem is a worthwhile
goal, false praise may instead promote narcissism and
unrealistic self-regard. Teachers should avoid encouraging
children to think highly of themselves when they have not
earned it (Baumeister, 2001; Hitz & Driscoll, 1988).
Additional long-term strategies may include encouraging
children to resolve their own problems and using peers
to mediate between bullies and their targets. Furthermore,
teachers can spend time helping children to form ties with
peers who can offer protection, support, security, and
safety, thus helping to reduce children’s exposure to bullying
(Kochenderfer & Ladd, 1997; Ladd, Kochenderfer, &
Coleman, 1996).
SUMMARY
Bullying and teasing are an unfortunate part of too many
children’s lives, leading to trouble for both bullies and their
victims. Children who are bullied come to believe that
school is unsafe and that children are mean. They may develop
low self-esteem and experience loneliness. Children
who continue to bully will have difficulty developing and
maintaining positive relationships. A comprehensive intervention
plan that addresses the needs of the school, the
classroom, teachers, children, and families can be developed
and implemented to ensure that all children learn in a
supportive and safe environment.
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