10–12 This paper describes the design of research that seeks to develop an instrument to measure the self-report of covert bullying among preadolescent children aged 8–12 years (grades 4–6). There is a widely documented need for continuing research into the reliable and valid measurement of bullying that is covert or intentionally hidden. Furthermore, when adults are observing children interacting and actively looking for evidence of bullying it is very difficult for them to differentiate between the playful teasing that is common with children of equal power and the ‘systematic abuse of power’ that constitutes bullying(ref. 8 In reality, however, adult support is often not forthcoming because adults are simply not aware of bullying behaviour that is deliberately or intentionally hidden. 3, 7 At this age and in the school context, support from adults within the school is paramount to nurturing children's emotional well-being as they encounter new social relationships. 6 Evidence suggests that bullying among school children peaks between the ages of 9 and 13 as children find their social position among their peer group. 3–5 Children who bully others are also more likely to experience poor health and developmental outcomes, such as depression, increased alcohol and substance use, 3 future school dropout, criminal arrest, and teen parenthood. 1–3 Health problems associated with being a victim of bullying range from loneliness low self-concept fear and somatisation to anxiety, depression and suicidal behaviour. Bullying is widely recognised as a health issue in schools as it is associated with a broad range of social, emotional and physical health problems and poor school achievement.
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