Violence Prevention: School-based Anti-bullying Interventions

The Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPSTF) recommends school-based anti-bullying interventions to reduce bullying experiences and improve mental health among students. Systematic review evidence shows that when interventions are implemented in schools, students report fewer episodes of bullying perpetration, fewer episodes of bullying victimization, and fewer mental health symptoms like anxiety and depression.

Interventions may include:

• Professional consultation to school administrators and staff on evidence-based policies and practices
• Training for teachers, counselors, and staff on how to identify and respond to aggressive or bullying behaviors or signs of victimization
• School-wide activities and media events
• Student assignments and letters from school administrators to engage parents and caregivers

CPSTF points out that more research is needed to:

• Identify interventions to achieve a greater impact on bullying outcomes. Most studies included in this systematic review reported small effects on bullying outcomes. 
• Examine the effectiveness of interventions for those who disproportionately experience bullying, like students who self-identify as LGBTQI+, have disabilities, or are overweight