One other factor we found to be counterproductive was the lack of discipline at our son's school. Kids were not well supervised and the victim who fought back in defense was suspended as well. If ethics aren't taught in relation to peers, it makes school extra stressful for kids who are different. For example, the kids were brought back from recess and left in a classroom without an adult. This enable a boy to shove him to the floor while a girl cut his hair. (4th gr.) The playground didn't have enough aides, also. So, even though he entered the school system with good social skills and was friendly, he soon found that an environment of similar values was not fostered and was virtually a free-for-all.
