Bullying. It has become a major problem in today’s society. Most of us have been teased as little kids, but bullying is more serious. Bullying is a repetitive, conscious intent to hurt another individual. This article focuses on the different forms of bullying, the effects of bullying, and some warning signs of bullying.
Bullying can be in different forms: verbal, physical, or psychological. Verbal bullying is speech used to hurt a person. This includes name-calling and making threats. Physical bullying is causing physical harm to the individual by hitting, pushing, shoving, etc. Psychological bulling can be brought upon by spreading rumors.
Bullying can begin as early as preschool, and it can intensify during transitional stages. These transitional stages include transitioning to first grade or middle school. Researchers estimate that 20 to 30 percent of school age children are involved in bullying. They are either perpetrators or victims. Bullies usually make fun of other kids because they think that it is cool to make fun of others, or they may also think that they will be popular if they bully. Victims are usually shy and are not very social, which makes it hard for them to stand up for themselves. Bullies use these types of kids as targets because they do not retaliate.
Bullying has negative effects on a child’s life. It can cause problems with low self-esteem and depression. Kids that are bullied often times show a drop in grades at school. They also might become anti-social and may develop other psychological problems.
When dealing with the issue of bullying it is important to know the different warning signs of bullying so that help and support could be given to a particular child. Warning signs include frequent crying and unexplained bruises. Another warning sign that might suggest that a child is being bullied is when there is a sudden change in the way a child talks about herself or himself. Children may start calling themselves losers or say that they have no meaning in life. These are some of the many warning signs that may suggest to parents and other adults that the child needs help to try to overcome the issue of being bullied.
They best way to help is to give a child space for communication. Do not try to talk about the problem if they child is not ready to talk. Sometimes that can make the situation worse. Wait for the child to open up when the child thinks the time is right. Also, make sure to be understanding and provide support. Give the child advice as to how the child can overcome the problem, such as by ignoring the bullies and making new friends. The child also needs to understand that there are people that he or she can rely on for support. This may include parents or counselors at school.