The Book
The Book Bullying can take many forms. Whether it be verbal or physical harassment, or exclusion from certain activities, continuous bullying on children can cause long term damage. Children who are bullied may find it difficult to form normal intimate relationships. They may become mistrustful of others. Their self confidence may be at risk.
The key to bullying lies in schools embracing an ethos in which it is impossible for this sort of abuse to flourish. Using recent Australian and overseas studies Professor Rigby demonstrates thus positive steps con be taken and the incidence of this form of harassment can be reduced significantly.
Even though this type of abuse will affect 20 per cent of our school children, Professor Rigby believes that we have grounds for optimism. "Bullying in schools - and what to do about it" shows that there are ways to tackle the problem. It offers strategies to identify both bullies and victims. It presents ways to diffuse potentially troublesome situations. It shows that there are methods of dealing with bullies that are not punitive and damaging but can help to make the abuser more aware of how the victim feels. It offers ways to enhance the self-esteem of the victims.
This is a passionate and motivating book that policy makers, school administrators, teachers, doctors, and parents will find invaluable. Both empowering and positive, it is a book that offers hope to all our children.
The Australian Council for Educational Research
Bullying Book