KiVakiusaamisen

KiVakiusaamisen refers to the approach within the KiVa anti-bullying program aimed at reducing school bullying in Finland and abroad. KiVa stands for Kiusaamista vastaan, meaning Against Bullying in Finnish. The term KiVakiusaamisen is the genitive form used in Finnish to describe bullying addressed by KiVa.

Origins and development: The KiVa program was developed by researchers at the University of Turku in the early 2000s in response to persistent bullying in Finnish schools. It is an evidence-based intervention that combines universal preventive measures with targeted responses to incidents of bullying and relies on regular school surveys to monitor prevalence and school climate.

Program structure and methods: KiVa uses universal activities delivered to all students, including classroom lessons on empathy, bystander intervention, and peer dynamics. For reported or suspected bullying, schools follow a standardized protocol that can involve interviews with the victim, the perpetrator, and sometimes classmates, conducted by trained staff. A dedicated KiVa team coordinates the response and follows up to prevent recurrence. Annual or periodic student surveys track changes in bullying and safety perceptions.

Evidence, adoption, and adaptations: Evaluations in Finland and other settings indicate that KiVa can reduce bullying and improve social climate when implemented with fidelity. The program has been exported to several countries, with adaptations to local languages and educational systems. Successful deployment typically requires teacher training, school leadership support, and ongoing monitoring.

Limitations and considerations: Implementation quality and context influence outcomes. Some critics note the need for cultural adaptation, resource allocation, and careful monitoring to avoid unintended consequences. KiVakiusaamisen remains a common reference point in discussions of KiVa’s approach to reducing bullying in schools.