Middle school youth and their teachers are seldom the focus of research explaining the bridge between bullying and sexual violence. Through interviews with middle school students and focus groups with their teachers, Research Scientist Linda Charmaraman, Ph.D. has explored and will discuss the following questions during a Wellesley Centers for Women Lunchtime Seminar on October 21st: (1) What are student and teacher perceptions of bullying (including cyberbullying) and sexual harassment, including why it occurs, where, when, and to whom? (2) From student and teacher vantage points, what factors in the school environment influence the occurrence of bullying and sexual harassment and what are the consequences? (3) What types of support do teachers need to help them address issues of bullying and sexual harassment? (4) What recommendations do students provide for effectively addressing bullying and sexual harassment?

Lunchtime Seminar Series programs are free and open to the public. Held Thursdays from 12:30 to 1:30 in the Cheever House Library, the seminars highlight the work of Wellesley Centers for Women researchers and program staff. For more information, call 781.283.2500 or visit www.wcwonline.org.

Since 1974, the Wellesley Centers for Women has been a driving force—both behind the scenes and in the spotlight—promoting positive change for women, children, and families. Work at WCW addresses three major areas: the status of women and girls and the advancement of their human rights both in the United States and around the globe; the education, care, and development of children and youth; and the emotional well-being of families and individuals. Issues of diversity and equity are central across all the work as are the experiences and perspectives of women from a variety of backgrounds and cultures.