The 60-Second Bullying Intervention: A Restorative Approach

Stop Bullying in 60 Seconds: A Restorative Approach for Everyone

Bullying can be a tough issue to tackle, but what if you had a simple, restorative-informed strategy to intervene in just 60 seconds? This approach empowers teachers, parents, and peers to create safer environments, both online and offline.

Here are three powerful lines, designed for different roles, to help de-escalate and foster understanding:

For Teachers:

Line: “That comment isn’t okay here.”
Delivery: Calm, firm, and direct. Maintain eye contact and a neutral stance.
Purpose: To immediately set a boundary and signal that the behavior is unacceptable within the established environment.

For Parents:

Line: “Can we fix this together? I saw what happened, and I’m here to help. That hurt, didn’t it? How can we make this right?”
Delivery: Empathetic, supportive, and curious. Approach your child with genuine concern.
Purpose: To acknowledge the harm caused, offer support, and open a dialogue for repair and learning.

For Peers:

Line: “We don’t do that. What led you to say that?”
Delivery: Assertive but not aggressive. Speak with conviction and a genuine desire to understand.
Purpose: To challenge the behavior within the peer group and encourage reflection on the motivations behind the hurtful words or actions.

The Key to Success:

1. Pause: Take a moment to observe and assess the situation before intervening.
2. Deliver the Line: Use the appropriate line for your role with the suggested delivery cues.
3. Match Tone and Distance: Adapt your tone and physical proximity to the situation for maximum impact.
4. Ask the Repair Question: Follow up with a question that encourages accountability and a desire to make amends.

Taking it Online:

The same structure can be adapted for online interactions. Be mindful of the digital space and adjust your approach accordingly.

Need Exact Wording?

For those who want precise language and quick prompts, a one-page printable script is available. You can find it linked in the description below as part of the “Bullyproof Guide” and “Bullyproof Support” resources.

Let’s work together to create more compassionate and respectful communities.

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