Intervention programs for the prevention of bullying and the promotion of prosocial behaviors in adolescence: A systematic review

Abstract

Bullying is a social problem that is immersed within the social context and can have serious consequences in adolescence. Prosocial behaviors allow adolescents to have more positive behaviors. The objective of this systematic review study is to identify different programs that have been carried out for both bullying prevention and the promotion of prosocial behaviors in adolescent students. In order to carry out the systematic review, an exhaustive search was conducted in the Web of Science, Scopus and PsyCINFO databases using specific search formulas. Subsequently, eligibility criteria were applied to select relevant studies. After reviewing the results obtained, a total of 28 studies were identified and selected for the search on bullying prevention programs and 10 on prosocial behaviors that met the established criteria for inclusion in the analysis. The results of the systematic review indicate that the intervention programs analyzed are not only effective in reducing bullying and promoting prosocial behaviors, but also have a positive impact on other related variables. Evidence was found that these programs contribute to improving school climate, promoting emotional well-being and supporting adolescent mental health. These findings highlight the importance and additional benefits of implementing comprehensive intervention programs that address multiple aspects of adolescent development and well-being in the school environment.

Keywords

• School bullying
• Prosocial behavior
• Education programs
• Systematic review
• Adolescents