There is a real or perceived power imbalance between bully and victim. Name-calling, teasing, gossip. Harassment and actual abuse. This particular approach is a favorite of Margaret Sagarese, co-author of Cliques. The entire climate must change, she says.
Teachers add their observations.
In the classroom, bullying is discussed and empathy is encouraged. A school conference day is scheduled to highlight messages and skills, including how to be social and positive. Teachers, administrators or counselors intervene with known bullies, talking to those boys and girls and to their parents as well. There are promising programs, but there is no magic bullet, experts say. His DOE project has identified nine exemplary and 33 promising programs.