Bullying is a widespread problem in schools and causes stress for those affected, for perpetrators, bystanders and teachers. One speaks of bullying when a pupil is repeatedly and over a longer period exposed to the negative actions of others, and there is an imbalance of power.
Studies have shown that, in addition to higher rates of anxiety and depression, those affected by bullying are three times more likely to engage in self-harming behaviour and to have suicidal thoughts and wishes. It has been shown that perpetrators are more likely to change jobs as adults and to come into conflict with the law. An intervention against bullying could therefore also protect against mental health problems and self-destructive behaviour.
We have decided to take active action against bullying and have chosen the prevention programme „Mobbing&Du – schau hin und nicht zu“ (“Bullying&You – look closely and don’t look away”) from the Clinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University Hospital Heidelberg. The clinic developed „Mobbing&Du – schau hin und nicht zu“ on behalf of the Baden-Württemberg Stiftung.
Through this prevention programme, pupils in years 5 to 9 and all teachers learn how each individual can recognise bullying, stop it and prevent it in the long term. E-learning units, class lessons, project days and anonymous surveys are designed to ensure the programme’s success. In addition, we are closely supported by the research group at the University Hospital Heidelberg.
A core team, made up of the school management, teachers and the school social work team, has been formed to put „Mobbing&Du“ into practice at the Johannes-Brenz-Gemeinschaftsschule.
During the first year, pupils have the opportunity to take part in the research group’s study. The study will scientifically examine how effective the prevention programme is, which components are particularly important for it, and whether psychological stress is reduced.
For the e-learning units we use the dedicated Moodle platform of „Mobbing&Du“.
If you are affected, a perpetrator, a bystander, otherwise involved, or have further questions, please contact our core team: