Evaluating the Role of Parenting in Bullying Prevention

Abstract

The aim of this evaluation study is to examine possible moderating effects of adolescent perceived parenting on the effectiveness of the Be SAFE, Affirming, and Fair Environments (Be SAFE) bullying prevention curriculum. Using family systems theory, this evaluation focuses on the influence of parenting on the change in adolescent bullying attitudes and behaviors after completing an adapted version of the Be SAFE bullying prevention curriculum. Findings show that on average adolescents reported engaging in more bullying behaviors after participating in the Be SAFE program, and adolescents who perceived their parents to be permissive reported significantly greater increases in bullying behaviors than adolescents who perceived their parents to be authoritarian and authoritative.