What is bullying? 

To begin the discussion of bullying behaviors, we first need a solid understanding of what it actually is. Signe Whitson, author of 8 Keys to End Bullying helps us to understand the difference between rude, mean, and bullying. The first step is understanding the clear difference as adults, so we can respond to our child's experience appropriately. 

Bullying behavior is purposeful with the intent to cause harm through means of physical, verbal, relational, social, emotional, and/or electronic communication. This behavior is patterned and pervasive, averaging two or more incidents per week over the course of two or more weeks. There is a power imbalance which may be either physical or social in nature. ​

How does your counseling program prevent and address bullying behaviors? 

At Mercy, we work hard to educate our parents, teachers, and students about how to prevent, identify, and respond to bullying behavior. We follow the guidelines and curriculum of Signe Whitson, who is nationally recognized for her work related to bullying behavior. OLOM had the pleasure of hosting Mrs. Whitson in 2017, where she addressed all middle school students, parents, and teachers. 

Lower School Interventions may include: 

• Classroom lessons that focus on making and keeping friends, identifying and expressing uncomfortable emotions, healthy coping skills, assertiveness skills, tattling vs. telling 
• Small groups that focus on prosocial behavior & healthy coping skills
• Individual counseling and support as requested by parent, teacher, or student

Upper School Interventions may include:

• Classroom lessons that focus on appropriately identifying and reporting bullying, understanding the responsibility of a bystander, tattling vs. telling, stopping gossip and rumors, practicing assertiveness skills and conflict resolution skills, healthy coping skills, healthy technology use 
• Small groups that focus on assertiveness skills, conflict resolution skills, self-esteem, and healthy coping skills 
• Individual counseling and support as requested by parent, teacher, or parent 

Campus-Wide Interventions may include:

• Guest speakers
• Teacher education, consultation, and support
• Regular referrals and consultation with outside counselors and other professionals
• "Lunch & Learn" opportunities for parents
• Student Success Meetings 
• Parent communication through phone, email, & newsletters 

How do I report bullying behavior?

Please contact your child's designated counselor directly. Parents and students are also free to use the Stopit App, which sends anonymous reports directly to an administrator.

What happens when you receive a report of bullying behavior? 

First, we utilize Signe Whitson's screening tool  to help us to determine appropriate next steps. Mercy counselors collaborate with administrators to ensure that reports are followed with thoughtful consideration and action, supporting all students involved. 

Additional Resources for Families 

8 Keys to End Bullying: Strategies for Parents and Schools ​by Signe Whitson

Weird! series by Erin Franklel

Books written by Trudy Ludwig: My Secret Bully, Trouble Talk, Invisible Boy, Better than You, Sorry!, Just Kidding, and Confessions from a Former Bully

Friendship is Like a Seesaw by Shona Innes

Bullying articles on childmind.org

"How to Deal with Mean Kids on the Playground"

Tattling vs. Telling 

Assertiveness phrases for standing up to mean and bullying behaviors 

How to Stop Gossip & Rumors 
​
Bystander Revolution videos for adolescents 

*Please note that all external resources suggested on this website should be screened by parents to confirm that the resource is developmentally appropriate for your child and fits within the framework of your family's needs and values*