AntiBully

AntiBully is a term used to describe coordinated efforts to prevent bullying and related harm in schools, workplaces, and online communities. It encompasses policies, educational programs, and supportive services designed to reduce incidents, protect targets, and promote respectful behavior.

AntiBully initiatives have emerged in response to concerns about the social and psychological consequences of bullying, including depression, absenteeism, and school dropout. Programs are typically implemented by schools, districts, non-profit organizations, and online platforms.

Common approaches include comprehensive, whole-environment strategies such as explicit anti-bullying policies; staff training; student leadership; bystander intervention; peer mentoring; restorative justice practices; clear reporting channels; privacy protections; support services for victims; and digital safety education.

Efforts address both face-to-face and online harassment, with tools such as anonymous reporting portals, moderation policies for online platforms, and guidelines for responsible online behavior.

Evidence suggests that well-implemented programs can reduce bullying prevalence and improve safety in schools. Effectiveness tends to be higher when leadership is sustained, training is ongoing, and the program aligns with the school climate and values.

Criticism and challenges include resource demands, cultural resistance, measurement difficulties, and potential for punitive approaches to backfire if not paired with supportive, inclusive practices.

See also: anti-bullying policy, bystander intervention, restorative justice, cyberbullying.