Bullying Behavior: Current Issues, Research, and Interventions.

R. A. Geffner, M. Loring, & C. Young (Eds.). Binghamton, NY: The Haworth Press, 2001. 200 pp. $27.95 (softcover); $59.95 (hardcover). Bullying Behavior is a monograph that was published simultaneously as the Journal of Emotional Abuse, Vol. 2, Nos. 2/3. Anyone associated with schools today is aware that bullying is a grave concern, one that can be found to a greater or lesser extent in most schools. Obviously, this is an important issue in the safe schools movement.

This volume provides research articles that encompass issues in elementary schools as well as those affecting middle school and high school populations. Bullying is described as a behavioral interaction rather than merely a person or a behavior. The idea of a student being both a bully and a victim offered an interesting perspective.

Most of the data was gathered through self-report survey instruments, including peer nomination forms. Much data was presented to substantiate the characteristics of bullies and victims. Gender differences were studied, as were changes in bullying at different grade levels. Studies suggest that teachers tend not to get involved. The specific information provided on all aspects of bullying makes this a valuable resource. Reviewed by Jean Kueker, Professor, Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio, TX