Graduation Date
5-2014
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department or Program
Education
Department or Program Chair
Elizabeth Truesdell PhD
First Reader
Madalienne F. Peters, EdD
Abstract
Student-to-student bullying is still a current issue within elementary schools nationwide. Educators are often unaware, improperly trained and/or unwilling to help in student bullying incidences. Without training or willingness, teachers often are driven into silence and inaction, effectively putting the wellbeing of students at risk. The present study examines this topic through previous literature, gathers data to raise further awareness and better understanding of this issue, and provides proactive bullying prevention strategies for teachers. The present study collects data quantitatively and qualitatively with the conduction of surveys and personal interviews of pre-service and veteran educators respectively. Findings reveal increasing efforts to address student bullying, and evidence suggests pre-service and veteran teachers are still underprepared to handle student bullying. There remains ongoing need for further research to provide best methods of bullying prevention for all students involved in order to bring about positive and lasting change.