Stop Bullying...Take a Stand!

We all know that the old adage about sticks and stones is not true: words can and do hurt. This latest episode of the acclaimed PBS television series In the Mix takes on the pervasive issue of school bullying, offering advice for both victims and aggressors on curbing the problem. Bullying still can take the form of physical violence; however, for the majority of students today, it comes in the form of verbal or written communication. Cyber-bullying, or harassment online, especially via instant messaging or in chat rooms, is a new and particularly virulent form of bullying that doesn't end with the last class, but rather follows students home. An AOL consumer advisor shares smart tips on dealing with cyber-bullies, who are violating most ISP's (Internet Service Provider) terms of service. In addition, the program looks at how a government grant under the HRSA's (Health Resources and Services Administration) Stop Bullying Now! program partnered a high school with a middle school to create anti-bullying awareness and organized action. As one of the teens points out: if you reduce bullying in middle school students, you're reducing it in future high school students too. Energetic, practical, and filled with good peer-to-peer talk, this is recommended. Aud: I, J, H. (E. Gieschen)