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D.A.V.I.D. Anti-Bullying Institute

 

What is the D.A.V.I.D. Anti-Bullying Institute of Massachusetts?

Shrewsbury Youth & Family Services, Inc. (SYFS) has been offering a variety of programs and services addressing the issue of bullying throughout the last several years, including youth counseling services, family counseling, educational workshops/seminars provided to the community, and direct collaborations with local institutions working with youth. This past year, we have taken steps to formalize and combine existing services and creating a more comprehensive approach to the issue of bullying and similar maladaptive behaviors from youth.

The DAVID Institute was designed and formulated to take a long-term, long lasting approach in addressing this pervasive issue through research-informed interventions, innovative services, and effective programs to individual children, families, and other providers.

The DAVID Institute will work in collaboration and in concert with partnering institutions such as local schools and academic institutions. This collaboration will enable the Institute to effective research the issue, administer services, and provide wide ranging programs to relevant parties. Initially, the DAVID Institute will partner with Shrewsbury Public Schools and Assumption College in Worcester to develop a pilot research and intervention program.

The logo

The iconic imagery of “David vs. Goliath” is well known throughout many cultures. The DAVID Institute has chosen this image as a de facto logo due to its compelling message: “David” represents victims of bullying (including those who fall victim to perpetrating the bullying behaviors themselves); “Goliath” is the representation of bullying behaviors that has become so pervasive and entrenched within youth culture today. The hopeful message is that “David” can defeat “Goliath” not through brute strength but through thoughtful consideration, intelligent decision-making, and resourcefulness – all traits to be instilled through the DAVID Institute.

 

What does the “D.A.V.I.D.” acronym stand for?

DETERRING

 AGGRESSION

 VIOLENCE

 INTIMIDATION

 DISPARAGEMENT

What services and initiatives will the DAVID Institute provide initially? 

•      Counseling and Education to Youth

•      Resources and Education for Parents, Educators, and Others Working with Youth

•      Parent Support Services

•      Consultation and Training to Schools

•      Research and Development of Best Practices through collaborations with other institutions

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