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Article
Bully Prevention in Positive Behavior Support
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis (2009)
  • Scott W. Ross, Utah State University
  • Robert H. Horner, University of Oregon
  • Thomas Higbee, Utah State University
Abstract
Bullying behaviors are a growing concern in U.S. schools. We present here a behavioral approach to bully prevention utilizing a schoolwide intervention. Bully prevention in positive behavior support (BP-PBS) teaches students to withhold the social rewards hypothesized to maintain bullying. A single-subject multiple baseline design across 6 students and three elementary schools was implemented in an empirical evaluation of the intervention's effectiveness. Results indicated that implementation was functionally related to decreased incidents of bullying for all 6 students observed. In addition, we observed a decrease in the social responses from victims and bystanders. Finally, school staff implemented the program with a high degree of fidelity and rated the program as effective and efficient. Limitations and implications of these results are discussed.
Publication Date
2009
DOI
10.1901/jaba.2009.42-747
Citation Information
Scott W. Ross, Robert H. Horner and Thomas Higbee. "Bully Prevention in Positive Behavior Support" Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis Vol. 42 (2009) p. 747 - 759
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/scott-ross/17/