School-Wide Bullying Prevention Program for Elementary Students

Abstract

Abstract Bullying is a serious problem affecting students nationwide with up to 15% reporting regular bullying. This article discusses the characteristics of bullies and the impact of bullying on victims. “No Bullying Allowed Here” is a school-wide program for elementary schools. Lesson plans cover characteristics of bullies and victims, responding techniques, problem solving, perspective taking, and empathy. Students completed surveys prior to instruction and at the end of the year. Chi-square analysis shows significant changes in the reported frequency of bullying and associated behaviors. Changes in frequencies across all categories are distributed in a manner that is significantly different from what would be expected in the population. Students reported far less bullying and fear about being bullied after instruction in prevention techniques.