Bullying at school is a serious issue that affects many children and their families. According to the U.S. Department of Education, about 22% of students ages 12 to 18 reported being bullied during the school year in 2019. It's crucial for parents and educators to know how to handle this situation effectively.
Understanding Why Bullying Happens
Research has shown that there are multiple reasons behind bullying. A 2020 study in Psychological Science found that bullies often act out due to a lack of empathy, problems in family dynamics, or peer pressure. Children who are bullied may be seen as different or perceived as easy targets. For example, those with unique physical features, learning disabilities, or quiet personalities may be more vulnerable.
Signs That Your Child Is Being Bullied
Parents need to be vigilant for signs that their child might be going through bullying. These signs can include unexplained injuries, lost or damaged belongings, a sudden drop in academic performance, withdrawal from social activities, or frequent mood changes. A report by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) states that children also may start complaining of headaches or stomachaches as a way to avoid going to school.
What Can Parents Do?
- Provide Emotional Support
- When a child discloses being bullied, it's essential to offer a listening ear and show that you understand their feelings. A 2019 study in Journal of School Psychology emphasized that a supportive home environment can help children better cope with the stress of bullying. Let your child know that it's not their fault and they are not alone.
- Talk to the School
- Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and school administrators. Share the details of what your child has told you. Schools are legally required to address bullying according to the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education. You can work with the school to develop a plan to protect your child and stop the bullying.
- Teach Coping Strategies
- Help your child learn self-defense or assertiveness skills. For instance, they can learn to say "Stop, I don't like that" firmly when confronted. Also, encourage them to stay with a group of friends, as bullies are less likely to target children who are not alone, as suggested by research in the Educational Psychology Review (2021).
- Build Confidence and Resilience
- Enroll your child in activities they enjoy and excel in, such as sports, music, or art. Success in these areas can boost their self-esteem. According to a 2022 study in Child Development, programs focusing on building resilience in children can significantly reduce the long-term negative effects of bullying.
References
- U.S. Department of Education (2019). Indicators of School Crime and Safety.
- AACAP (2020). Bullying and Its Impact on Children.
- Journal of School Psychology (2019). "Supportive Home Environments and Bullying Coping".
- Educational Psychology Review (2021). "Peer Interaction and Bullying Prevention".
- Child Development (2022). "Resilience Building in Bullied Children".