Bullying & Hate-Motivated Behavior Prevention

Provides resources for parents, administrators, and students on how bullying can be prevented and addressed. Resources include publications, sample policies, and frequently asked questions.

Bullying is a form of violence. It can be physical, verbal, psychological, or sexual. Here are some examples of bullying:

  • Physical: hitting, kicking, spitting, pushing
  • Verbal: teasing, threatening, name-calling
  • Psychological: excluding someone, spreading rumors, intimidating
  • Sexual: touching, assault, exhibitionism, and many of the actions listed above

Bullying may also occur through the Internet or other forms of technology. This is known as cyberbullying. It is sending or posting hurtful material.

Bullying is common, but it should not be viewed as a normal part of growing up. It is more damaging to children than previously thought. Bullying has a negative effect on a student’s ability to learn.

Schools are responsible for creating safe environments for all students. They must work to prevent bullying, and they must respond to it when it happens.

The California Department of Education offers information and resources for parents, administrators, and students about bullying.

Information and Resources

Bullying Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions based on the Bullying at School publication.

Bullying at School (PDF)
This California Department of Education publication discusses methods for determining whether or not bullying behavior and/or hate-motivated behavior is present.

Prevention of Bullying: A Community Responsibility
Provides key elements of a bullying prevention program.

Publications and Resources (Updated Jul-2012)
Publications and resources, including community-based resources, for educators, parents, and community members with tools for recognizing bullying behavior and approaches for determining how to respond.

Sample Policies and Implementation Plans (Updated Jul-2012)
Model policies and plans for the prevention of bullying and on conflict resolution that were developed by the California Department of Education as resources to help California schools address these vital school safety concerns.

Suggestions for Parents When Dealing with Bullying External link opens in new window or tab.
Available Translations of Suggestions for Parents When Dealing with Bullying
Suggestions provided by Brenda High, Director, Bullying Police USA.