Studies show that anti-bullying policies, along with encouragement of appropriate behavior, can dramatically reduce bullying at school and lower the likelihood of later aggression and delinquency which often follows. In addition, research suggests that school climate improves only when schools develop and implement a comprehensive anti-bullying plan designed to teach pro-social behavior, limit aggressive behavior and teach skills that promote positive interactions between students.

Supporting Citation:

Leff SS, Power TJ, Costigan TE, et al. (2003). Assessing the climate of the playground and lunchroom: implications for bullying prevention programming. School Psychology Review (32) 3, 418-430.

Olweus, D. (1994). Bullying at school: Basic facts and effects of a school-based intervention program. Journal of Child Pscyhology and Psychiatry (35) 7, 1171-1190.

Orpinas, P, Horne, AM (2004). A Teacher-focused approach to prevent and reduce students' aggressive behavior. American Journal of Prevention Medicine (26) 1 supp, 29-38.

Rodkin PC, Hodges EVE (2003). Bullies and victims in the peer ecology: four questions for psychologists and school professionals. School Psychology Review (32) 3, 384-400.