Speakers
Description
Background: Bullying is a significant public health issue affecting children’s physical, emotional, and mental health. Traditional anti-bullying programs have shown varying degrees of effectiveness, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. This study, conducted in Norway, introduces a peer support group intervention based on a solution-focused approach (SFA), aimed at reducing bullying and promoting social inclusion among school children.
Objective: The primary study objective is to investigate the effectiveness of a support group intervention in reducing bullying, enhancing mental health, improving quality of life, and increasing general self-efficacy among school children in 5th-7th grade.
Methods: This cluster randomized controlled trial involves 26 schools, randomly assigned to either the intervention group implementing the support group model or a control group receiving usual care. The intervention leverages SFA counselling to engage children in identifying and applying solutions, supported by peers, school nurses, and teachers. Outcome measures include bullying reduction, quality of life, and mental health improvements, evaluated at baseline, intervention end, and 6- and 9-month follow-ups.
Planned outcome: Pilot studies conducted from 2020-2022 demonstrated the intervention's feasibility and acceptability, with reported improvements in peer relations and classroom atmosphere. The current study expands on these findings through a randomized design to rigorously assess the intervention’s long-term effectiveness.
Conclusion: While early findings are promising, the study is ongoing, and outcomes will be evaluated as data becomes available. This peer support group intervention utilizing a SFA model has the potential to serve as a low-cost strategy for reducing bullying and improving the psychosocial environment in schools.
Keywords
Bullying, Solution Focus Approach, Elementary Schools, Support Group
| Please also indicate what kind of contribution it is: | Scientific |
|---|---|
| Please indicate what type of scientific contribution it is | Quantitative method study |
