Girl Scout Council to Explore Hidden World of Girl Bullying in March 26 Seminar in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Spreading rumors, forming cliques, and making fun of others are just a few of the ways girls have been mean to one another for years.  However, with the advent of social media, bullying in today's society is more complicated than ever. The increased exposure to a variety of social media puts teenage girls at greater risk for online or text message bullying, commonly known as cyberbullying. This type of bullying and other forms of relational aggression will be addressed by experts in their field during a one-day seminar hosted by Girl Scouts Louisiana East, and funded in part by the Louisiana Children's Trust Fund. The Girl Bullying – Awareness to Action seminar is being held Saturday, March 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the New Orleans Marriott at the Convention Center, and is open to troop leaders, parents, educators, and community leaders.

"While we continue to see the negative effects of relational aggression among children and teens, many adults are without the knowledge or skills needed to provide assistance in dealing with bullying," said Yvette Hairston, vice president of membership for Girl Scouts Louisiana East. "This conference will give adults insight into the hidden world of relational aggression and situational tools that can help our girls."

According to Hairston, even girls in elementary school can become victims to relational aggression.  "While television and movies primarily portray girl bullying in a high school setting, it's happening at all ages," said Hairston.  "As girls begin to use social media, girl bullying can escalate, since it's easier to be mean to someone when it's not face to face."

According to a survey by i-SAFE Inc., a leader in internet safety education, 58 percent of kids admit someone has said mean or hurtful things to them online with more than 4 out of 10 experiencing it more than once. Bullying negatively affects not only a child's physical, emotional, and social well being, it has an adverse affect on academics as well. Instead of concentrating on school work, kids spend time worrying about what will happen to them at recess, in the cafeteria, or on the way home.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Allan L. Beane, internationally recognized expert and author on bullying, will present true stories of victims, as well as his son's personal story. Presenters facilitating break-out sessions and exhibits throughout the day include Shari Champagne, Robin W. Clark, Sgt. Roderick B. Franklin, Sr., Kristine Rose Grant, and Kelsey Ann Jackson.

Registration is required with a pre-registration fee of $50 per person or $75 onsite. Visit www.gsle.org to register and for a schedule of activities. For information, contact Yvette Hairston at 800-644-7571, or 504-733-8220, ext. 2238 or [email protected].

SOURCE Girl Scouts Louisiana East