Bullying is intimidating or aggressive behavior used to harm another person who is perceived as weaker or vulnerable.
What is interesting about bullying is how it has changed into various forms over the years. What used to be physical, verbal, and emotional bullying now includes cyberbullying where bullying takes place from a device.
What is significant is the negative effects on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of the person being bullied. It is important for school staff to understand that bullying can take place in various settings. This can take place in the bathroom, before and after school, in crowded hallways, and even on phones where there is limited supervision.
It is vital to create a safe and inclusive environment where students feel safe to seek help and that telling is not tattling. Educating students and staff, implementing clear policies and procedures, supporting victims, and involving parents and the community are all ways schools can address bullying effectively.
Parents can be a big help when addressing bullying at home by recognizing signs that indicate their child may be experiencing bullying or is bullying others. Listening to your child and validating their feelings helps your child understand that they are not alone and have support at home.
Advocate for your child’s rights and well-being at school and speak up when you and your student need support. Monitoring your child's online presence is also a great way to actively work against cyberbullying.
Remember, supporting your child through bullying requires patience, empathy, and ongoing communication. By actively engaging and advocating for their well-being, parents can make a positive impact and help their children navigate through these challenging situations.
Parents, teachers, and school administrators can work together to help students see the importance of positive behavior as well as what to do when they witness someone being bullied. Together, we have to stress the importance of being a good friend and making an effort to befriend those who may be excluded because of their differences.
Together, we teach young people that if you witness someone being bullied, speak up and intervene if it's safe to do so.
We can choose kindness every day but that choice requires conscious effort and practice.
By treating each other with respect, empathy, and compassion we can all contribute to a positive and inclusive educational environment where everyone feels safe and bullying is less likely to occur.
Lead by example and always choose kindness, every day.
Happy Mental Health,
Gabrielle Bridges, M.A.ED, LHS School Counselor
Resources: (https://www.apa.org/topics/bullying/prevent, https://www.stopbullying.gov/kids/what-you-can-do, https://www.commonsense.org/education/articles/teachers-essential-guide-to-cyberbullying-prevention)