What is Bullying?
"Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have serious, lasting problems.
In order to be considered bullying, the behavior must be aggressive and include:
- An Imbalance of Power: Kids who bully use their power—such as physical strength, access to embarrassing information, or popularity—to control or harm others. Power imbalances can change over time and in different situations, even if they involve the same people.
- Repetition: Bullying behaviors happen more than once or have the potential to happen more than once.
Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose." (StopBullying.gov)
Who are the parties involved in bullying?
- The Bully
- The Bullied
- The on-lookers, spectators, viewers
Parents
Recognize the warning signs if your child is involved in bullying.
- Unexplainable injuries
- Lost or destroyed items (clothing, jewelry, books, etc...)
- Feeling ill frequenly
- Changes in habits, most commonly eating
- Nightmares and difficulty sleeping
- Lack of interest in school and declining grades
- Low self-esteem
- Self-destructive behavior
Resources
Check your state's anti-bullying laws and Federal Laws addressing your child's rights.
