active listening/counselling-based approaches - 11 to 18 years
These methods combine befriending and mediation with pupils
counselling peers in distress. They involve referral by adults, a
drop-in service at designated times, work with tutor groups, and
observation of vulnerable pupils during lunch hours and break-time.
In some systems, pupils operate a telephone helpline. The skills
needed are similar to peer mediation.
Typically:
- pupils nominate and vote for likely peer supporters (alternatively,
teachers can select pupils, thus retaining more control)
- a panel of adults and existing peer supporters short-list and
interview volunteers
- selected pupils train through role-play, discussion and supervision
(often carried out by a qualified counsellor or psychologist)
It is more difficult to recruit boys than girls, and their drop-out
rate is higher because of peer pressure. Some peer supporters
report hoax calls and referrals, adverse comments, jealousy, or
doubts expressed about their ability. Where levels of aggression
are high, peer supporters may struggle to challenge the culture of
bullying. However, where peer support systems are firmly
established the climate in schools can improve and victims of
bullying find it easier to tell another person.
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