Thank you for bringing this to light.

I notice that in all the cases cited (and in most others I know about) the adults did not do their jobs. They knew what was going on, but they allowed lawless individuals and gangs to control the school or the school bus. Whenever the legitimate authorities leave a vacuum, the most vicious and brutal people will try to take over. Remember the book by William Golding, “Lord of the Flies,” where the children were on the island without adults to help set high standards.

I especially appreciate that you didn’t end with descriptions of different bullying tactics or with psychoanalysis about why bullies do it. You ended where it should end: with an example of adults taking charge and stopping the bullying. And it’s not that hard for administrators who are dedicated to stopping bullying.

Bullies have always existed and will always exist. We must prepare ourselves and our children to act skillfully and effectively. We can do that as a society (laws, culture) and as individuals.

In my coaching, consulting and books on how to stop bullies in their tracks at home, in school and at work (http://www.bulliesbegone.com), I always focus on stopping bullies before trying to help therapeutize them. Help the victims first. If the legitimate authorities won’t act, you, as a parent, must still protect your children, work to replace the failing administrators or move to a school district where the authorities act courageously and firmly.

Thanks for the article,
Ben