Preventing Abuse Case Study #1

Case Study #1 "One of your 4th grade female students is very well developed physically and looks as if she is 15 instead of 9 years of age. Today you heard a group of 5th grade boys commenting on her body in a lewd and humiliating manner. Two other teachers also heard these comments but blew them off as "boys will be boys," and "she needs to get used to it."

Considering teacher ethics and responsibilities, describe how 

you might respond to and handle this situation. 

Unfortnately, this type of behavior is probably more common than we would like to think. However, the act of ignoring is one of the reasons it persists, as it sends the message that it is 'okay' to disrespect one another.  5th graders or not, regardless of age, it is still exploitation and should be treated as such. Every child deserves to live and go to school in an environment that is safe and supportive. Bullying and exploitation have no room in schools. As a teacher, it is my job to protect my students. I feel that the only ethical option a teacher has in this position is to take it seriously and intervene. In this situation interference is needed immediately. In doing so, you are letting your female student know that she is safe and you will stand up to protect her. At the same time, the boys who have made the comments will understand that this is completely unacceptable behavior and it will not be tolerated. It will also send the message to other students that there are consequences for behaviors such as this. In addition, I think it is important to talk with the boys individually with another staff member, perhaps your school guidance counselor and principal, so they understand the severity of the matter and take the time to consider how their actions affect others. Furthermore, the comments of the other teachers also bring forth concern. Their dismissal of the behavior is setting a terrible example to all parties involved. An adult authority figure has the responsibility to protect the children they are caring for, as they cannot protect themselves. I would also speak with my co-workers and express my concern. Perhaps they are reluctant to report activity such as this for various reasons. Talking with them about the severity of the situation may help them realize their own responsibilities. Moreover, as educators in the same school you are team. Immediate feedback is necessary to make sure that you have a strong, productive team. Finally, this situation needs to be recorded in writing and reported to my supervisor. Included in the report should be the actions of your co-workers, as it is there responsibility to report exploitation such as this.