Alternative Response To Bullying
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Alye Pollack, a bullied teen was seen by thousands on YouTube last March sitting before the camera trying to look happy. That video is shown to those caught bullying in Needham, MA as part of the Bullying Intervention Program, designed by Needham Youth Services.
This strategy is part of a response to Massachusetts' first-in-the nation legislation requiring school districts to develop bullying-prevention programs and systems tracking and reporting incidents.
Most school systems identify bullies and use suspension as a deterrent. Needham Youth Services tries to rehabilitate them, using 10-hours of one-to-one counseling.
Social workers dig for root causes of threatening behavior, belief systems, values, media influences and family history. Participants learn about personal and legal consequences of bullying and media coverage.
Elizabeth Englander, a bullying specialist who teaches at Bridgewater State University, attests to the strength and uniqueness of engaging bullies in a therapeutic program and doesn't just leave it up to parents.
Read "Alternative Response to Bullying" on Boston.com.
Reported By Dr. Marciene Mattleman, KYW Newsradio
