Mediation Center offers bullying prevention program

No child should be afraid to go to school. Bullying, which creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, is a widespread problem in schools. In fact, one out of every five students in the average classroom experiences bullying on a regular basis. Studies indicate that 23 percent of students in grades 4-6 have been bullied more than once. In grades 6-10, 17 percent of students have been bullied more than once, with 8 percent being bullied as often as once a week. The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program notes that bullied students experience lasting negative effects including depression, low self-esteem, health problems, poor grades, and suicidal thoughts. Bullying also has a lasting negative impact for students who bully. In one study, 60 percent of boys identified as "bullies" in middle school had at least 1 criminal conviction by the age of 24. 35 percent had 3 or more convictions. "Bullies" were three to four times more likely than non-bullying peers to have multiple convictions by age 25. Berkley/Huntington Woods Youth Assistance and Huntington Woods Public Library have sponsored Oakland Mediation Center to conduct a Bullying Awareness workshop to parents. This two hour, informative session will uncover what bullying is, how it differs from conflict, and the truths behind bullying myths. It will speak to the impact bullying has on all students and provide tips and skills for parents on how they can talk to their child and their child's school about concerns over being bullied or bullying others. The workshop will take place on Thursday, Jan. 13, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend the session. The program will be held at Huntington Woods Library, 26415 Scotia in Huntington Woods. Registration is required. To register, e-mail Berkley/Huntington Woods Youth Assistance at programs@bhwya.org, or call the Youth Assistance registration line at (248) 837-8170. Note how many adults will be attending and contact information. "OMC's mission is to help the community peacefully resolve conflict through mediation and education," said Bonnie Hanes, OMC Executive Director. "We believe the greatest impact OMC can have on our community is by preparing our youth for the future." To learn more about bullying prevention initiatives, e-mail Kenzi Bisbing, Youth Services Manager, at kbisbing@mediation-omc.org. Published: Wed, Jan 5, 2011

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