Conclusion

Given the serious effects bullying behavior has on both students and schools, we can’t afford to simply dismiss it as a “normal” or inevitable part of childhood. There is nothing “normal” about ongoing incidents of harassment, violence, and intimidation. Bullying not only leads to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem in students who are targeted, but also causes other students to feel unsafe at school and significantly interferes with learning. Long-term effects of bullying on students who bully, such as aggressive behavior continuing into adulthood, cannot be ignored either (Schwarzbeck, 1998). Students of all ages deserve to feel safe and supported at school (USDOE, 1998).

Taking bullying behavior seriously is an important step in working toward safe and effective schools. Through training, collaboration, and carefully designed programs, educators, policymakers, parents, and students can work together to ensure that schools are a place where students feel welcome, included, and ready to learn.