Bullying was once considered a normal, inevitable part of growing up. Boys hitting each other on the playground were shrugged off with the thought that “boys will be boys.” Girls excluding one another were considered to be engaging in a rite of passage to womanhood. National incidents like school shootings at Columbine High or at Virginia Tech and the rash suicides of gay teens and college students have cast new light on the age-old problem of bullying. The perpetrators were themselves victims of bullying or had felt the stinging effects of social isolation and discrimination.
Bullying at school means that learning occurs in a culture of fear and intimidation. Defining bullying is a first step towards understanding it. These attacks can include taunting, teasing, hitting, threatening or indirect bullying through purposeful exclusion caused by gossip and rumors.
Using clips from Hollywood blockbusters like Knocked Up, The Emperor’s New Groove, Benchwarmers and others, Reel Big Bullies will examine strategies to help students, administrators, teachers and counselors create a safer school environment for all students. It is also intended to help all students understand the terrible toll bulling can take on its victims, and to encourage students to stand up for their classmates who are being harassed.
About the presenterBrian C Johnson
Brian C Johnson is an independent scholar focused on the intersections between media and society. An active scholar and writer, Johnson is anticipated his 9th book length publication in 2021. Johnson completed the PhD in communications media and instructional technology at IUP in December 2016. His research focuses on diversity and film pedagogy.