Bullying, as we know, takes many forms. But, it almost always carries with it the same dynamics; power, control, stereo-typing, hate & bias, violence, and fear. If victimization or targeting is not addressed then we feed the cycle of violence.

The RI General Assembly has recognized the problems related to violence in and around the classroom, particularly bullying and has enacted policies that school districts must meet to protect students.

There are many resources to learn more about bullying and the impact it can have on children. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' Health Resources & Services Administration has a great web site filled with useful information and resources to help parents, children and professionals understand bullying and ways we can stop bullying. To visit the HRSA web site click on the Stop Bullying Now logo above or click here.

Check Out The HRSA Web Site

The following is taken directly from the HRSA web site:

A lot of young people have a good idea of what bullying is because they see it every day! Bullying happens when someone hurts or scares another person on purpose and the person being bullied has a hard time defending himself or herself. Usually, bullying happens over and over.

• Punching, shoving and other acts that hurt people physically
• Spreading bad rumors about people
• Keeping certain people out of a "group"
• Teasing people in a mean way
• Getting certain people to "gang up" on others

Bullying also can happen on-line or electronically. Cyber bullying is when children or teens bully each other using the Internet, mobile phones or other cyber technology. This can include:

• Sending mean text, e-mail, or instant messages;
• Posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on Web sites;
• Using someone else's user name to spread rumors or lies about someone.

Take a look at webisode #5 to see an example of cyber bullying. There are many ways that young people bully each other, even if they don't realize it at the time.

Unfortunately, not everyone takes bullying seriously, including adults. Which is one of the main reasons that the Youth Expert Panel has worked alongside the representatives of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) to develop the Take A Stand. Lend A Hand. Stop Bullying Now! campaign.

Need More Information About Bullying?

CCAP's Doric Center has programs that work with children, teens and families. Doric Center staff have conducted anti-bullying workshops and presentations for Cranston elementary schools in collaboration with the Cranston Child Opportunity Zones. We have also provided home based case management services to children and adolescents who have been victims of bullying.

The Cranston Substance Abuse Task Force, in collaboration with Lt. John Reis (Providence Police Retired) and the PAVE program, will be running a pilot program at Bain Middle school to provide education to students identified as bullies. CCAP has recently applied for funding to provide specific support services to victims of school bullying.