Pediatricians take on bullies, dating violence

[June 12, 2009]  CHICAGO (AP) -- The American Academy of Pediatrics wants doctors to take an active role in preventing bullying in schools and dating violence among teenagers.

The academy gives doctors tips for doing that in an updated policy being published in the July issue of its journal, Pediatrics.

This is the first time the policy has included sections on bullies and dating violence.

Dr. Robert Sege (SEH'-gee) of Boston Medical Center is a lead author of the policy. He says children can learn that bullies are kids with problems and bystanders can protect victims.

Sege says to prevent dating violence, pediatricians should tell teenagers that respect is important in relationships.

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On the Net:

Academy of Pediatrics: http://www.aap.org/

[Associated Press]

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