NCJ Number
203270
Journal
Law Enforcement Trainer Volume: 16 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2001 Pages: 16-19
Editor(s)
Frank A. Hackett
Date Published
July 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article briefly examines the issue of bullying, specifically in the State of Colorado, following the shootings at Columbine High School in Littleton, the development of preventive school programs through legislation, and the effectiveness of such programs.
Abstract
Bullying involves intentional, repeated hurtful acts, words or other behavior with a real or perceived power imbalance between bully and victim. Bullying can be physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual. As the threat of violence in schools escalates, bullying becomes the focus and the one piece of the puzzle most associated with violence in school. Two years after the violent shootings at the Columbine High School in Littleton, CO, the State legislature is attempting to mandate school programs to reduce and prevent bullying. Some States across the United States have passed or are considering passing anti-bullying legislation. Colorado’s legislation would let school districts choose their own approach. For programs to be effective, they must be comprehensive. Most successful programs often have a parent component, may involve the entire family, a student component, and a community component. It is also stated that no one program is suitable for all schools or all communities, as well as no single formula. Bullies are seen coming from both intact and broken families, some are socially isolated and some are popular. Bullies' academic performance ranged from excellent to failing. Efforts to reduce and prevent bullying should concentrate on disconnected kids and their relationships, not just on programs.