assertiveness training groups - primary and secondary pupils
In a safe, supportive environment, bullied pupils talk about their
experiences, and learn and practise effective responses. They avoid
either any use of threats or trying to manipulate or intimidate,
and keep responses honest and transparent. Pupils feel more secure
and in control, with less anger and despair. Responding in a
neutral but direct way takes the heat out of the situation.
The younger the pupils, the shorter the sessions and the smaller
the group. The optimum time for Year 4 or 5 pupils is 20 minutes
with a maximum of six or eight pupils. Secondary groups can work
from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Sitting in a circle without
desks, a typical group will learn one technique a session:
- making assertive statements
- resisting manipulation and threats
- dealing with name calling
- escaping safely from physical restraint
- enlisting support from bystanders
- boosting self-esteem
- remaining calm in stressful situations
Once a group has begun, no new pupils should be admitted; however,
pupils can drop out at any time. Lunchtime groups are viewed more
like a club than a withdrawal class, and pupils can be more honest
about whether they wish to attend or not. They use their own
situations to practise, giving them confidence to use the
techniques outside the group and experiment with different
strategies.
Sometimes it may be better to work with pupils individually than to
construct a group involving pupils who have not been badly bullied.
Do not mix victims with aggressors. The last meeting should be
carefully managed to emphasise the gains the pupils have made from
the group, but at the same time to draw the group to an end.
This approach can be expensive in terms of time and money. Groups
need regularmeetings with the same member of staff, books,
materials, and a comfortable meeting room - free from
interruptions, allowing space for role-play. Educational
psychologists and PSHE staff can offer training or referral.
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