Children as Victims and Victimizers

Abstract

This paper presents a systemic perspective for understanding the pervasive problem of victimization in schools by clarifying adult attitudes toward childhood aggression, examining victimization as a continuum of behavior, and emphasizing the interpersonal relationship between victims and victimizers. In addition, the rationale and description of a preventive program dealing with children as victims and victimizers is presented. Bullying happens all the time In class, at home, or in the lunch line Bullies punch, kick, threaten, and steal Then I don't have money for my lunch meal They try to be cool by making others hurt And that makes you feel like dirt I don't know how they can stand to do such If I tried bullying, I'd feel bad too much. Tracy, Amy and Phil, Age 11 Fair Play Program Participants