Bullying

Bullying isn't an easy term to describe. It can mean different things to different people, especially when you deal with kids.

 

Some of the ways kids bully other people are by: hitting, kicking, calling them names, saying or writing nasty things about them, leaving them out of activities, not talking to them, making them feel uncomfortable or scared, and taking or damaging their things. Sometimes it comes in the way of threats, or teasing.  This can become more damaging than just hitting or kicking.

The word 'bullying' is used to describe many different types of behavior ranging from teasing or deliberately leaving an individual out of a social gathering or ignoring them, to serious assaults and abuse. Sometimes it is an individual who is doing the bullying and sometimes it is a group. In any case, bullies are cowards.  They tend to pick on children who won't stand up for themselves.  That's because children don't know how.  They need to be taught.

The important thing is not the action but the effect on the victim. No one should ever underestimate the fear that a bullied child feels. It is painful, upsetting and frightening. It can lead to a fear of school and reduces children's confidence. Children often feel weak and friendless and often think it is their fault. If it is not stopped children feel helpless because no one can protect them.

A lot of times the child may feel that they did something to bring this on.  We need to reassure them that they aren't alone, and this wasn't brought on by them.  Today, since it is more out in the open, children should realize that they don't have to face this on their own.  

Children and young people who witness or become aware of bullying may be unsure what to do and whether they should tell someone. Make sure they know that they should talk to a parent or teacher, and tell them why.

Children must learn that they need to communicate, communicate, and communicate!  It is essential that they tell their parents, teachers, and friends, what is going on!! That is the first step.  We then can begin  to give support and help kids understand the 'why'. Ignoring the problem doesn't fix it.  It will only get worse!

My class will be discussing this and we will be adding our own thoughts and articles on this subject. Please return to this site and check it out.

Have any of these things happened to you? Have you done any of these things to someone else?  

Read on and remember to view the movie.

     
                                                                                                                        10/07