The current research regarding antisocial behavior makes clear that early intervention in home, school, and community are the best hope we have of diverting children from these behaviors. Most students are neither bully nor victim. They are however witnesses to the bullying that takes place around them. Given the frequency of bullying as reported in this survey, it is important to acknowledge the effects of bullying on bystanders and the potential effects on school climate. Recommendations Public Schools do not intentionally teach violence or promote aggressive behavior in children.
School violence is a community issue.
If we accept the premise that schools are a reflection of their communities then we must realize that schools alone can not resolve the bullying issue. We need to promote the idea that there are multiple stakeholders involved in this issue and we are all in this together. The current research predicts a bleak future for children who bully and for their victims unless there are corrective actions taken by those in a position to influence their lives. We must always remember that this work is targeted at specific behaviors not specific individuals. We must avoid labeling a child as a bully or victim.