While the past decade’s epidemic of youth violence has focused much attention on serious acts of violence in our nation’s schools, relatively little attention has been given to bullying. This study was conducted to define the problem of bullying in Connecticut elementary schools and examine what is being done to prevent bullying in this population. A random sample of 300 elementary schools was selected. Principal and teacher versions of the Connecticut Elementary School Violence and Violence Prevention Survey were mailed to the principal and one teacher in each of grades 1, 3 and 5 in these schools. 76.4% of principals and 87.3% of teachers reported that at least one type of bullying occurred sometimes or often in their schools and classrooms, respectively. The most common types of bullying observed in classrooms by teachers were, in order of frequency, name calling, teasing, socially isolating students and hitting. Bullying increased with age from grades 1 through 5, although in most cases, this association was not significant. Most teachers (59%-86%) said that they intervene often or very often when they see bullying. Most teachers dedicate fewer than 10 classroom periods each year to violence prevention curricula. Teachers and principals believe that the primary causes of violence and bullying stem from children’s homes, and that state-level policies should target families, communities and schools. Bullying is common in Connecticut elementary schools. Since bullying in the schools is a reflection of children’s behavior and experience beyond the school walls, effective prevention and intervention must be multicontextual.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant (learner) will be able to: 1. Describe the nature and prevalence of bullying in Connecticut elementary schools, 2. Identify potential policy solutions to bullying in Connecticut and other states.
Keywords: School-Based Programs, Youth Violence
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.