The bully at school: an interdisciplinary approach.

Abstract

Recent legislation enacted across the United States mandates schools to intervene and improve the reporting system of school bullying. Although the laws are an extension of safe school mandates, restoring justice in schools has taken a top priority. The lack of intensity of current anti-bullying programs and educators underestimating the gravity of bullying and its long-term effects on victims is problematic. In addition, little emphasis is being placed on understanding the research base of children who bully others. A review of the criminology and psychiatric research provides insight into the behavior of the bully. Studies demonstrate that bullying in school is a “gateway” behavior toward future criminal behavior; bullying will persist if professionals do not buy into the gravity of chronic child aggressors. Remediation directed at young children is essential, concurrent with the provision of teacher training programs focused on understanding the common behavioral disorders of childhood. A look at the existing research provides direction toward meeting the significant needs of children who bully others and perpetuate violence in schools and into adulthood.