This presentation sheds light on the implementation of bullying prevention programs from various perspectives. Several bullying prevention programs and practices have been developed, and their effectiveness has been evaluated. Yet, it is evident that far less emphasis has been placed on both in research and societal discussion on the implementation and sustainment of these programs and practices under real-life conditions. Recent studies have highlighted multiple factors, such as local bullying prevention policies, school resources, human resource management, staff training, and commitment which all can contribute to program sustainment either by fueling or hindering it (see fore more Herkama et al., 2022; Sullivan et al., 2021). Also, there are studies emphasizing the need for implementation support in school context (Herkama et al., 2022; Sainio et al., 2020), but so far evidence-based models on providing schools with implementation support do not exist. In order to benefit from bullying prevention programs and practices as well as utilize their full potential, more attention should be paid to implementation in all levels of the educational system.
In this presentation three research-based examples on the importance of implementation are briefly introduced. These examples highlight the need for 1) promoting adherence to the given guidelines, 2) paying attention to program sustainment from the very beginning on, and 3) providing support to schools to overcome typical barriers in everyday life at school when implementing a chosen bullying prevention program. The KiVa antibullying program developed in Finland and currently being delivered in over 20 countries and regions will be utilized as an example. To conclude, practical implications are reflected upon.