The Method of Shared Concern

This method is the most comprehensive approach available for use with cases of bullying involving groups and arguably the most effective.

The following references provide a good background to this method:

1. Pikas, A. (2002). New developments of the Shared Concern Method. School Psychology International, 23, 307-312. This contains a description of the ideas and procedures put forward by the creator of the method, Anatol Pikas.
   
   
2. Rigby, K. (2011) The Method of Shared Concern: a positive approach to bullying in schools. Camberwell: ACER. This provides a detailed account of how the method works and can be implemented in schools.
   
   
3. Rigby, K., and Griffiths, C. (2010). Applying the Method of Shared Concern in Australian schools: an evaluative study. Canberra: Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations www.deewr.gov.au/Schooling/NationalSafeSchools/Documents/covertBullyReports/MethodOFSharedConcern.pdf (This is a research report funded by the Australian Federal Department of Education.)
   
   
4. Rigby, K., and Griffiths, C. (2011). Addressing cases of bullying through the Method of Shared Concern. School Psychology International 32, pp. 345-357. A peer reviewed account based on the above).
   
   
5. Rigby, K. (2006). The Method of Shared Concern: a staff training resource for bullying. Readymade Productions Adelaide. See: www.readymade.com.au/method.
   
   
6. Thompson and Smith (2011 The use and effectiveness of anti-bullying strategies in schools. Research Report DFE-RR098. London: HMSO www.education.gov.uk/publications/eOrderingDownload/DFE-RB098.pdf This report includes an evaluation of the method based on evaluations supplied by Local Educational Authorities in England. Of all the intervention strategies The Method of Shared Concern received the highest rating.

A simplified cartoon version of how the method works he method is available

However, practitioners of the method are advised to seek training or practice before employing the method through role plays. Ken Rigby is available to provide appropriate training. Ken.rigby@unisa.edu.au. Phone +61 8 83021371.