Children’s Week 2015 Bullying forum: Audience Q&A

About this Video

• Video Title: Children’s Week 2015 Bullying forum: Audience Q&A
• Channel: Commissioner for Children and Young People WA
• Speakers: The transcript does not name the speakers. There are multiple presenters and a moderator who takes questions from the audience.
• Duration: 00:16:27

Introduction

This video is a recording of an audience Q&A session following presentations at a Children’s Week 2015 Bullying forum. The main purpose is to address audience questions about bullying, focusing on the transition to high school, the Friendly Schools program, and home-based bullying. The discussion also includes strategies for supporting both victims and bullies.

Key Takeaways

• Increased Bullying During Transition to High School: Research shows a 20% increase in bullying when year 7 students transition to high school compared to remaining in primary school. This is attributed to structural changes in the school environment.
• Effectiveness of the Friendly Schools Program: The Friendly Schools program, after extensive research and development, has shown a significant reduction in bullying in participating schools. The program's success is linked to a systematic approach starting in kindergarten and continuing through year 10, creating a culture of anti-bullying and providing support for both victims and bullies.
• Addressing Bullying as a Health Issue: The presenters emphasize addressing bullying as both a health and discipline issue. They highlight the need for support and intervention for bullies, especially those chronically involved, to change their behavior.
• Support for Bullies: A significant portion of bullies lack empathy. Therefore, strategies such as motivational interviewing are being tested to address the underlying motivations behind bullying behavior. The video underscores the need to support bullies, rather than simply punishing them, to effectively address the problem.
• Primary vs. Secondary School Bullying: Bullying rates are higher in primary school, around ages 10-11, but decrease significantly in secondary school. However, chronic bullying cases persist in both settings, requiring targeted intervention.