Pat's Personal Research Journey

       This week I am sharing the topic of "Bullying" for my research simulation project in the ECE 6163 Course.  The reason I chose bullying, comes from my experience of working with youth who have displayed aggression towards others and other youth have shown signs of depression and withdrawal due to being bullied.  Even though there are resources available for youth, families and staff to reduce bullying, not everyone is willing to be open for assistance.  

          Based on research, even when programs have an impact, the improvement seems to be more of a change in the child's knowledge and perceptions and not the behavior of bullying. I want to provide more avenues that are effective to support and stimulate those who are in need to be more proactive to gain assistance in preventing being bullied or being a bully.  The related issues or subtopics that I have chosen but not limited to are the following:

 1. Promote awareness of being considerate of others.

 2. Train teachers and parents how to recognize signs of being bullied and providing effective support.

 3. How to effectively communicate concerns about being bullied without fear.

          In constructing the research chart in week 1, I was able to find that research must be creditable and provides acceptable information that identifies why bullying takes place and what has worked so far to develop prevention.  People will be more inclined to be more receptive to what is true and provides concrete evidence and not random thoughts. 

          I look forward to suggestions and to be able to learn from others who have gone through this experience of working with youth who have faced the ordeal of being bullied and/or who have been the aggressor that led to bullying others.  First hand knowledge provides factual content and gives others opportunity to see that they are not alone.