This document provides an overview of bullying presented by Amanda Nickerson at the University at Buffalo. It defines bullying, discusses prevalence rates and characteristics of both bullies and victims. It also examines the social context of bullying including the role of bystanders, school environment, families and school staff. Key aspects of effective anti-bullying programs and what does not work are outlined. The document concludes with information on responding to bullied children and bullies as well as details about the Dignity for All Students Act.

1. Amanda B. Nickerson, PhD Associate Professor and Director Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention University at Buffalo [email_address] gse.buffalo.edu/alberticenter November 16, 2011

4. Bullying Intentional, usually repeated acts of verbal, physical, or written aggression by a peer (or group of peers) operating from a position of strength or power with the goal of hurting the victim physically or damaging status and/or social reputation Olweus (1978); United States Department of Education (1998)

5. Bullying vs. Teasing vs. Conflict Teasing : Fun, good-natured, “give-and-take” between friends to get both parties to laugh Bullying : Based on a power imbalance; intent to cause psychological or physical harm; usually repeated Conflict : A struggle, dispute, or misunderstanding between two equal forces

16. A Role for All: The Social Context of Bullying Adapted from Swearer & Espelage (2004)