SCHOOL BULLYING Bullying is generally defined as aggressive behavior where an individual intentionally causes another person injury or discomfort. In the school milieu, bullying may involve students and/or educators being victims or culprits. Today, there is a growing awareness of the impact of bullying in our schools. And with this awareness has come a dramatic increase in legal actions. While physical damages are frequently addressed, potential psychological harm must be considered as well. A thorough review of psychoeducational data, disciplinary records and police reports should be undertaken. Consideration may also be given to psychologically evaluating involved parties, as well as consulting with educators, parents, pediatricians and psychological and/or psychiatric treatment providers. Whether plaintiff or defendant, it is critical to determine whether an individual is grappling with a psychological injury and/or functional impairment. And, it is imperative to determine if alleged bullying is the proximate cause of a psychological problem. Oftentimes, there are premorbid variables that contribute to current difficulties. Before turning to the Court, school administrators and the legal community should be empowered with data. This information will help in determining if an individual has been subjected to bullying, what was done (if anything) to address the alleged behavior(s), what are the consequences, and what can ultimately prevent such actions in the future. -------------------------------------- Dr. Mark Lerner is a Clinical, School and Forensic Psychologist, and chairman of The Institute for Traumatic Stress. He is frequently called upon by plaintiffs and defendants in cases involving psychological injury. MarkLerner InstituteforTraumaticStress.org
Posted on: Sat, 14 Sep 2013 09:23:58 +0000
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