The Hostile Environment examines the latest psychological and educational research providing evidence that anti-bullying programs and school-based interventions lack intensity and a strong behavioral focus. This book includes information on characteristics and risk factors of bully perpetrators and victims, current laws and legal aspects of bullying, vulnerable populations of students such as students with disabilities and who are LGBT, and cyberbullying. Barriers to successful implementation of anti-bullying programs and societal problems are discussed. In light of recent state and federal anti-bullying legislation, now is an opportune time to examine the laws and evidence base with the intent of initiating significant changes in schools to interrupt the persistent cycle of bullying. A bold and new interdisciplinary model integrating teacher contracts and policies, increased mental health provisions for children and families, and communication between law enforcement and pediatricians is called for to change what has become a worldwide public health concern, a substantial disruption to the educational process, and a hostile environment in schools and communities.
Industry Reviews
Susan Carter provides educators with a thorough analysis of current research on bullying in her new book, The Hostile Environment. She goes beyond the descriptions of omnipresent bullying prevention programs and calls for a more integrated, proactive, and evidence-based approach to deal with this critical issue. School personnel would do well to implement her reasonable and thoughtful recommendations which will make the school environment less hostile for the most vulnerable students.
