Web Sites by Topic 

Bullying and Relational Bullying

Boyle (2005) reports bullying as repeated negative physical, verbal, and/or psychological actions directed at a target over time where there is a power differential, either real or perceived, between the target and bully.  Nearly 30 % (or 6 million) of middle school age children were involved in moderate or frequent bullying as the target, bully, or both (Boyle).  Boys are more likely to be involved in bullying while girls are more likely to use relational bullying or relational aggression (Carlson-Gotz & Berry, 2005; Boyle).  Relational bullying consists of social isolation, threatening to end a relationship, or spreading rumors about the target and is aimed at damaging relationships.  Relational bullying may go unnoticed by school specialists and parents (Carlson-Gotz & Berry).

GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network) works to make schools safe and affirming places by offering its Teach Respect campaign to educate and inform Americans to address problems of anti-LGBT name calling, bullying, and harassment  (http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/news/record/1784.html).

ACT (Adults and Children Together) Against Violence is a violence prevention project that focuses on adults who raise, care for, and teach children ages 0 to 8 years. It is designed to prevent violence by providing young children with positive role models and environments that teach nonviolent problem-solving. The project includes a wide variety of multimedia materials and training opportunities for educators stressing preventing school bullying, managing anger, resolving conflicts, and early violence prevention (http://www.actagainstviolence.org).