In his new book, Children and Bullying: How Parents and Educators Can Reduce Bullying at School, Prof Rigby explores ways parents can work with their children to avoid becoming either a victim or perpetrator of bullying behaviour.
"Schools and parents need a new approach to tackling bullying," Prof Rigby said.
"There has been a colossal change in awareness and attitudes towards bullying over the last 20 years or so but by and large teachers are not in a position to say they can solve the problem.
"The best research we've done was actually asking children whether things had improved after going to their teacher. While most don't talk to their teachers, of those children who do, there are around 10 per cent who say that things were worse for them afterwards."
He added that among older students the most likely outcome following teacher intervention was `no change.'
Prof Rigby's book is unique in that it combines a wealth of evidence and research with practical advice for parents and teachers to tackle bullying in school.
"There are lots of books with tips for parents, but I believe this one is different in that it is grounded in research. I've offered advice but also indicated why this advice is valid in light of current research findings," he said.
"We know that parents are concerned and this book is for these parents who take the issue of bullying seriously and want tackle it responsibly, importantly in partnership with teachers and schools."
"There needs to be alternatives. There needs to be new ways of resolving the problem and time spent reviewing the old ways of dealing with it."
Prof Rigby, an Adjunct Research Professor in UniSA's School of Education, has been researching bullying and victimisation in schools since 1990. He is a former teacher and has been published widely in both academic and professional journals, particularly on peer victimisation.
Children and Bullying is his eighth book on bullying and is available for $34.95 from local bookshops or online through www.johnwiley.com.au/trade and www.amazon.com.
"A practical book for parents that makes full use of the extensive research evidence available. An invaluable resource!"
Peter K Smith, University of London, UK
"As a father, this book moved me because after reading it I understood more about a parent's pain and anger when their child is involved in bullying. As a former teacher, I learned how bullying can appear different depending on the observer's role. And as a professor, I was impressed with the book's theoretical level and analytical power. It is exceptionally well written and stimulates both brain and heart."
Erling Roland, University of Stavanger, Norway
For further information see http://www.johnwiley.com.au/trade/engine.jsp?page=titleinfo&all$isbn10=1405162546
