“The Psychology of Mobbing” Erling Rulanna is a simple and clear book about bullying at school. When most children suddenly attack an unrequited person and begin to pursue him, causing mental and physical harm. In the English-speaking world, this is called “bullying”. In Scandinavia, it's “mobbing”. And here it's just “bullying”.
The book was written by a teacher for teachers and school managers. It contains the main theories of bullying; studies of the factors that influence bullying; predictors and diagnostic features; prevention; and, in case it does not work, detailed instructions on measures to stop bullying. The book ends with a conditionally artistic description of the case. The case was well chosen. It seems that this is not a success story at all: in it, bullying develops into a tragic situation. On the other hand, it clearly shows the potential importance of teacher attention and perseverance in such a difficult situation.
Bullying — a frequent occurrence. At least in Norway. At the same time, bullying occurs every now and then in schools, regardless of the level of well-being and social circle of students, and the number of classes and groups of teachers. The only thing that correlates is proactive aggressiveness. That is, a willingness to behave aggressively for the sake of that behavior itself. And a certain parenting style contributes to the formation of such aggressiveness, in which many severe restrictions (which are often not explained in any way) and punishments are combined with a lack of involvement in the child's life and a demonstrated interest in the child's personality. Parents who raise children in this way are the main suppliers of potential pursuers to schools. But the willingness to be aggressive in children alone is not enough.
The likelihood of bullying increases if the potential victim, potential pursuers and environmental factors, such as school management, meet in one place that repeats the approach to education already described. Ruland's book is dedicated to what school can do. To be used in Russian schools, its approach will require significant changes. But it is important and necessary to know about it, especially for those who work at school.
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