Bullying, Safe Schools and Public Health: An Overview in Connecticut Private Schools

Abstract

Introduction: As evident in the literature, bullying is frequently reported as a public health issue which affects the health and well-being of its victims. Bullying can also negatively impact student academic performance, leading to failure in school as evidenced by high and unacceptable drop-out rates and withdrawals.

Objective: This research aimed to examine the issue of bullying from a public health point of view and to assess the issue in a specific region of Connecticut’s private school network. Furthermore, the study will assess the role of a Safe School Climate Coordinator in developing and implementing programs in schools
that can serve as effective policy measures to improve school safety with the goal of reducing or eliminating bullying activities in the school environment.

Methods: The research employed the qualitative methodology from which six key themes emerged: mental health support; resource constraints; impact and influence of technology and social media; clear definition and distinction of bullying, harassment, and teasing; parental involvement and support; and importance and significance of the network’s culture. Nine participants from seven private schools in Connecticut took part in semi-structured interviews that were specially designed and conducted by the researchers. The nature of the interviews allowed participants to provide useful insights into the role they played in enhancing school climate by carefully developing and implementing policies and programs that reject violence and promote a school environment that is safe and conducive to learning.

Findings: All participants expressed concerns over to the limited mental health services and support that is available within the private school system. All cited the possibility that students are under extreme pressure, and that students are often negatively affected by their home and living environments. These exposures can increase the urge to “act out” while they are in school. Due to the network’s strict policy on bullying and any related behavior, there is ongoing monitoring to ensure there is adherence to the requirements. One administrator noted that the individual who was responsible for the Newtown incident had mental health issues.Another administrator opined that recently more referrals have been made to the Department of Children and Families than ever before. There are genuine concerns about what is going on and home environment. When students come into the school environment, they should have a positive outlook and willingness to learn. The message that is conveyed through the interviews is that there is great worry about the future of some students. Mental health support would be helpful in elevating some of the problems that they see in the school environment and work hard to prevent.

Conclusion: Where bullying is concerned, the public health toll is great and can have physical and emotional effects throughout the life of those who participate or are targeted. All efforts made to mitigate these deleterious effects in the early years of child and adolescence development is paramount in supporting the psychological well-being of the students.