Date of Award

2011

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Education

First Advisor

Frances Swantic

Second Advisor

Gary Peevely

Third Advisor

Gregory Duthey

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program (OBPP) and to provide an annotated bibliography of professional literature related to bullying for professional educators. The OBPP used a whole school approach and taught common vocabulary to define the word bullying. Bullying rose to front-page news in recent years and the events led to injuries, death, and even suicide. Long-term effects were severe and included self-esteem issues. The OBPP was one of the better-known programs; however, there were contradictory reports on its effectiveness. This mixed methods study gauged teacher and principal perceptions of the effectiveness of the OBPP. Principals and teachers were surveyed and follow-up interviews were conducted with the principals to better explain the survey results. This study affirmed that the OBPP was effective as measured by these teachers and principals. Based on this sample, results indicated that the OBPP was an effective tool to reduce bullying in the elementary school populations involved in this study. A recommendation stemming from the completion of this study was that the manner in which data on bullying is collected be streamlined. Further research may delve into the possibilities of consistent data collection nationwide to properly assess the bullying phenomena and navigate appropriate programs as solutions.

Keywords

Bullying, Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, mixed methods research

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