| Bullying is a serious problem among the nation’s youth, says
a study published in the April 25 Journal of the American
Medical Association. HRSA is responding to this problem
by offering information to help parents deter bullying.
HRSA’s Maternal and Child Health Bureau booklet "What
You Can Do to Prevent Violence" looks at bullying and
encourages parents to:
- help each child develop a sense of personal power and
self-worth;
- teach the child to stand up for personal rights and against
bullying behavior;
- encourage the child to ask for help – from parents, teachers
and the school principal;
- help the child explore the possibility of making friends
with the bully; and
- teach the child to walk away from insults and threats.
The booklet can be obtained from the National Maternal and
Child Health Clearinghouse at www.nmchc.org
or by calling 1-888-434-4624. For more information on bullying
prevention, contact the National Center for Education in Maternal
and Child Health at www.ncemchc.org
or 703-524-7802, and the Children’s Safety Network at www.childrenssafetynetwork.org
or 617-969-7101 ext. 2207.
The JAMA study, "Bullying Behaviors Among U.S.
Youth: Prevalence and Association with Psychosocial Adjustment,"
is based on a 1997-98 World Health Organization survey of
U.S. students in grades 6 through 10. It indicates that almost
30 percent of students reported moderate or frequent involvement
in bullying. Research conclusions suggest a greater need for
bullying prevention in the United States.
HRSA is the lead agency of the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services for improving access to health care for
medically underserved individuals and families nationwide.
MCHB is charged with
promoting and improving the health of mothers, children and
families, especially those who are low-income or lack access
to health care.
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