Some studies estimate that over 50-percent of students will experience bullying during their school career, a problem that can negatively impact children well into adulthood. For parents and those who work with children, it is important to know how to recognize bullying and when and how to intervene on a child’s behalf.
On Thursday, Oct. 18, national expert on bullying, Dr. Michael Sulkowski of the University of Arizona, will be in Newport to discuss the latest research on bullying prevention and intervention. His presentation takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Center for Health Education. The seminar is free and open to the public.
He will share research on the consequences and long-term effects of bullying, both on the victim and the bully. His presentation will explore at-risk and vulnerable populations, legal considerations, bullying and intervention best practices and cyberbullying.
“It’s important for us all to be aware of bullying, what it looks like and how to prevent it because we know it can lead to poor mental health, lower self-esteem and a higher rate of physical issues such as breathing difficulty, stomach pain and fatigue,” said Hillary Harrison, mental health education coordinator for Samaritan Health Services. “The intent of this seminar is to help us build up a safe culture for our young people.”
Sulkowski is the author of “Creating Safe and Supportive Schools and Fostering Students’ Mental Health” and “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in K-12 School Settings: A Practitioner’s Guide”. His research focuses on how student success is influenced by social support, connectedness, and having positive personal relationships, and how those variables facilitate resilience.
Space is limited, and registration is recommended. Call for information or to register: 541-574-4954.