Bullying can occur in the form of physical abuse, e.g., hitting someone, verbal, e.g., name calling or written via an electronic device. Spreading embarrassing or threatening information on an electronic device, e.g., computer or cell phone, is a growing concern.
Bullying is a lose –lose scenario; no one wins. Bullies lack empathy which can be very destructive. Eventually, bullies typically exhibit antisocial behaviors, e.g. smoking, drinking, stealing and may drop out of school. They may have difficulty developing relationships and are more likely to be abusive as an adult.
Bullying is extremely harmful to the victim who may suffer physically and emotionally. Depression, suicidal thoughts, low self esteem, living in fear and even academic repercussions can result from bullying. A child may be afraid to go to school or even walk to school and places energy into why she is getting bullied instead of school work or listening to the teacher. Children who fall victim to bullies typically have the following common characteristics:
- Lack confidence,
- Low self-esteem,
- Not socially adept; do not have a lot of friends, and
- Appear different, e.g., dress or talk differently.
Bullies find children with the above characteristics are easy targets and less likely to fight back.
Parents and educators have a responsibility to make sure our children are not subject to bullying or become bullies. As parents it is vital we model good behavior void of aggression. It is not appropriate to yell at the umpire at your 9 year old son’s baseball game or yell at someone who accidently cut you off (road rage) in front of your toddler. We all must be vigilant and protect our children from bullies.