This week's discussion of the influence of peer to peer relationships was very interesting. I have not had a lot of experience learning about peer relationships in schools so found our discussions beneficial. I think that the fact that students choose peer groups who share similar values is important to note. Students who are concerned with their academic achievement will most likely choose friends with similar concern for academics. I also thought our Skype session, though very technical, was interesting. Social relationships do change and do influence students in school. This is important for teachers to realize because students can promote or discourage each other.
In terms of bullying, I think that teachers need to be more present and more influential. Students should be taught how to deal with bullies in a practical manner. I do not necessarily think that bullying can ever be eliminated but encouraging students to stand up for themselves and to have non violent outlets fro their anger may alleviate bullying issues. As for the sensationalized nature of bullying leading to suicide, I am a bit torn. The media certainly should not make us believe that bullying causes suicide however, teen suicide is an issue that schools need to more openly address. Mental health is an issue that needs to be more openly discussed in schools, especially in middle and high school. Schools need to provide a way for students to feel safe and that they have someone to talk to. Teen suicide is a major issue, and despite the sensationalism in media reports, schools need to insure they are a safe, inclusive (especially for LGBTQ students) places where students can address any mental health issues.
I sort of agree and disagree with your last paragraph. Mental health is a very important issue in school and one we do not give nearly enough attention to. Suicide is also a very important issue, but it is not a very common one. For example, students are much more likely to be sexually abused or beaten by their parents than they are to attempt or commit suicide, but suicide gets more attention because of its sensational nature. I don't mean to minimize the importance of suicide, as it is tragic and occurs too often. I just would like us, as schools and a society, to focus more on the underlying causes that might lead one to attempt suicide. Bullying is one of many.
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