neighborhoodlink.com/article/Community/Bullying_Prevention_Program |
No argument: There should be ZERO tolerance for bullying.
The debate is over policy: Zero Tolerance Policies (where ALL acts of bullying result automatically in severe punishment, which in schools usually translates into suspension) sound good. Research, however, indicates it is ineffective at best.
Part of the problem is that Zero Tolerance Polices do not, by definition, incorporate (a) extenuating circumstances; (b) the fact that understanding what lead to the undesirable behavior is essential in determining the most effective responses; or, (c) the fact that what constitutes "punishment" various from each individual.
For a real life example, for the bottom line and real suggestions, please join this conversation at:
