"Bullying is a relationship problem that requires relationship solutions."
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Bullying Prevention by Dr. Wendy Craig, Dr. Debra Pepler
& Dr. Joanne Cummings Quickfind Books
book review by Lamisha Serf
With the recent increase in teen suicide as a result of peer bullying, this book couldn't have been written at a better time. Bullying Prevention is a short, yet practical book full of wonderful information to educate parents on the source and effects of bullying for children of all ages. Authors Craig, Pepler, and Cummings use their combined expertise in psychology to not only raise awareness, but also to provide specific guidelines for parents to help identify cases of bullying in their own children. They go on to explain the underlying source of bullying as a relationship problem that requires a relationship solution by providing proper support and guidance to victims and aggressors of bullying.
Written in practical and easy to understand language, Bullying Prevention provides a comprehensive guide to identifying and preventing bullying from pre-school aged children through adolescence. Also included are various bullying myths and facts, a variety of case studies, information on cyber bullying, as well as specific advice for parents in handling bullying situations. While working with children that bully others, the authors suggest that parents teach their children to deal with their anger and feelings in an appropriate manner while encouraging them to take responsibility for their actions. For victims of bullying, they state "...parents can make a difference and should always intervene" in addition to teaching their children coping skills and helping them to build strong relationships.
Craig, Pepler, and Cummings have done a great job of providing practical information and advice that not only focuses on the victim of bullying, but also takes into account the motives of the aggressor. Bullying Prevention is a book every parent should read.