Bullying in Schools

Bullying is a widespread, serious problem that can happen anywhere. Bullying may vary greatly between schools and school districts, but it is very prevalent. Bullying can cause serious and lasting harm.

"A person is bullied when he or she is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions on the part of one or more other persons, and he or she has difficulty defending himself or herself." -Dan Olweus

Although definitions of bullying vary, most agree that bullying involves:

• aggressive behavior that involves unwanted, negative actions
• a pattern of behavior repeated over time
• an imbalance of power or strength

Bullying may include:

• Name-calling, teasing
• Spreading rumors, leaving people out on purpose, breaking up friendships
• May be physical: hitting, punching, shoving
• Cyberbullying: using the Internet, mobile phones or other digital technologies to harm others

Potential Warning Signs

There are many warning signs that your youth may be involved in bullying; either by bullying others or by being bullied. These warning signs may be indicaters of bullying but they may also indicate other issues or problems. Ask an experienced professional or your school for more information.

Signs:

• Comes home with damaged or missing clothing or other belongings
• Reports losing items such as books, electronics, clothing, or jewelry
• Has unexplained injuries
• Complains frequently of headaches, stomachaches, or feeling sick
• Trouble sleeping
• Changes in eating habits
• Are very hungry after school from not eating their lunch
• Loses interest in playing with friends
• Is afraid of going to school or other activities
• Appears sad, moody, angry, anxious or depressed when they come home
• Acts differently from their usual self

If you think your child is being bullied what can you do?

• Encourage them to talk
• Listen to them
• Believe what they tell you
• Support them
• Contact the school
• Look for outside resources, including the Dispute Resolution Center
• Follow up with your child
• Stay with it until the matter is resolved