Recognizing the serious consequences of bullying for both perpetrators and their victims, the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Center for Mental Health Services have launched a Bullying Prevention Initiative. This booklet is part of the initiative. It first defines "bullying" as physical and verbal actions that involve physical and/or psychological harm to another person. Since bullying most often occurs in spaces where children and youth contact and interact with one another, then the school is the most prominent place where bullying occurs. After profiling the characteristics of bullies and the victims they are most likely to target, the booklet identifies some of the warning signs to parents and teachers that a child is being bullied. Some warning signs that a child may be bullying others are also noted. When symptoms of bullying are present or when bullying is observed by or reported to teachers, then it is important for school personnel to ascertain the facts and then contact the parents of both the victim and the perpetrator to attempt the development of constructive cooperation in addressing the problem. Based on a series of meetings, a strategy for dealing with the situation should be developed, implemented, and monitored to ensure that the bullying has stopped. It may be advisable to involve the school social worker, counselor, or psychologist in the meetings. Top priority must be given to the protection of the victim. Practical suggestions are offered to parents regarding what they can do if their child is a victim or a perpetrator of bullying. The booklet concludes with a description of the principles and characteristics of a model bullying prevention program. 9 references