Abstract:

Purpose: Bullying, which is an undeniable problem especially among primary school children over the world, can be prevented with school-based programs. In this study, bibliotherapy and creative drama-based peer bullying intervention program developed for primary schools were introduced. The student-centered and thematic curriculum is based on a progressive philosophy. The content of the program is shaped around 4 themes (emotions, differences, bullying and refugee) associated with the emergence of bullying behavior. Method: The content of the program was shaped around four themes (emotions, differences, bullying and refugee) associated with the emergence of bullying behavior. In the program, whose target audience is the three actors of bullying (bully, victim and bystander/witness), bibliyotherapy-based lesson plans were prepared for four grade levels of primary school by using picture storybooks selected in accordance with each theme. 4 sessions with two lesson hours per week are planned for each grade level. Various activities that require active participation of students, such as the use of techniques such as creative drama, group work, discussion, and digital education platforms are included in the lesson plans. The pilot implementation of the program was carried out in the fall semester of the 2019-2020 academic year in two primary schools in Çankırı with a total of 590 students. Findings: Interviews with teachers have shown that the program helps students to raise awareness and find new solutions to bullying. Implications: In order to monitor the long-term effects of the program, it should be tested with larger groups and over a longer period of time. Originality: It is the first peer bullying prevention program based on bibliotherapy developed at primary school level in Turkey.

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