The Australian Government earlier this week released research showing results of a study investigating a new technique to reduce bullying.

The research assessed the ‘Method of Shared Concern’, a technique which aims to reduce and eliminate bullying without directly punishing the bullies.

The technique involves non-confrontational meetings with the students involved in the bullying where the teacher emphasises concern for the bullied student. The technique aims to change the attitudes of the bullies by developing an understanding and eventually empathy towards the bullied student.

The study looked at 17 cases where the technique had been employed, with notable improvements reported in 90 per cent of those cases. The most common result reported was the complete cessation of bullying.

Education Minister Julie Gillard said that while there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, the findings would be included in a review of the national framework in place in schools to prevent and reduce bullying and increase student safety.

The media release for the study can be found here, and you can read the full study here.

Writer Tristan Boyd, Editor Dr Ramesh Manocha.