Bullying and Cyberbullying in Italy: Perspectives from an Action Research Project

This paper shows the results of an action research project titled “Bullout” financed by the Lombardy Region, Italy, on the topics of bullying, cyberbullying, and guidelines for intervention and prevention. The project had a threefold purpose: to investigate instances of bullying experienced by selected groups of students; to understand bullying dynamics and its various forms; to provide tools directly created by students against bullying and for its risk prevention. The project used a theoretical framework to detail the typical aspects of bullying dynamics and what action is needed for which, especially during the prevention phase. The action research methodology is applied through the learning-by-doing approach, thus allowing for active student experimentation and direct participation in the activities produced. Results are viewed under three perspectives: increasing our knowledge of bullying and cyberbullying dynamics; a systematization of methods for discussion of the subject with students; two practical storytelling tools to improve bullying and cyberbullying prevention.