Peter K. Smith discusses different types of school bullying, such as cyberbullying and biased or identity-based bullying. He also explores the progression of school bullying over time, known as the “four waves,” from the 1970s to present day. Furthermore, he references European research on preventing bullying, identifies potential causes and risk factors for being a victim, and provides an overview of how common school bullying is.
Smith explores diverse school-based programs and their outcomes, demonstrating the varied approaches to intervention. Smith emphasizes the importance of continuous efforts in preventing and addressing bullying. It is highlighted that while traditional bullying rates have remained relatively stable, cyberbullying seems to be increasing.
The author emphasizes the importance of creating safer environments for children, although my topic does not primarily focus on school bullying. However, this journal entry highlights biased and identity-based bullying, which both involve targeting individuals based on their sexuality and faith.
Smith discusses the percentage of lesbian/gay/bisexual students who experience bullying and identifies factors in the family background of both bullies and victims. This information from the journal entry aids me in understanding the opposing viewpoint in my paper and finding a solution to the problem.
Peter K. Smith, the Professor for Psychology at Goldsmith College, University of London, is renowned for his research in various LGBT pride events. Additionally, he has been an active member in a church in his hometown, where he has participated in numerous events and fundraising activities. In her book titled Be Not Deceived: The Sacred and Sexual Struggles of Gay and Ex-Gay Christian Men, author Michelle Wolkomir recounts her observations of two distinct religious groups.
One organization she observed was Exodus International, an ex-gay ministry that claimed to be capable of converting people’s sexual orientation. The other organization she observed was the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC), which fully accepted the men as they were. Throughout her observations, she witnessed both ministries attempting to share their respective beliefs with the men in small group settings.
