Background
Bullying is a considerable problem in schools, because
of its complex nature and serious consequences to the
health of pupils who have become victims (Natvig et
al, 2001).
Victims of bullying often suffer from anxiety, depression
and low self-esteem (Dao et al, 2006). Nansel et al (2001)
found that children who suffered bullying had poorer
social and emotional adjustment. They also found it
difficult to make friends, had poorer relationships with
classmates and often experienced greater feelings of
loneliness.
Bullying, when it occurs in schools, undermines a
fundamental right of children; namely to be educated in
a safe and secure environment to enable them to reach
their full potential (UNICEF, Article 4 and 29). It is
clear that children are not given this protection if they
are subjected to bullying or live in fear of being bullied
while in school.
There is an expectation that adults in authority
within school settings are accountable for children’s
wellbeing while they are in this environment and
must therefore safeguard them from harm. Although
teachers have both an educational and pastoral role to
play, it is often school nurses who have the training and