Is bullying a huge problem?

Bullying in schools is definitely a huge problem worldwide. Although it is not something new, meaning that it is something that many of our parents and grandparents had to deal with growing up, it has reached new extremes partially due to many popular social networking websites. Social networking websites have made it to where children are no longer just bullied from 8am-3pm. It follow them home at night and even on the weekend where they would usually be safe from other children’s taunting.

You may not realize this, but constant bullying in or out of school can affect many aspects of a teen’s life. Teen bullying can cause teenagers to feel anxious and afraid. It can affect their concentration in school and lead them to avoid school in many cases. Bullying if continued over time can begin to affect the teens self -esteem and feelings of self worth.

What can you do about bullying?

• The most important thing you can do is listen to your child or any child close to you that admits to being bullied. Ask your child about school and their experiences with bullies, direct or indirect. Look at your child’s behavior when they are around other children. Let your child know that it is not ok to bully other children.
•  Teach your children how to handle bullying situations warning your child never to resort to violence, even as a reaction to a bully. Encourage children to stand up to bullies and ask adults for help.
•  Last but not least, although you may be tempted to intervene by confronting the bully directly, please refrain from doing so. Things will most likely get out of hand and this will only make matters worse.

Scarlet reminds you that bullying is a huge problem worldwide, it is up to you to communicate with your children and not assume that they know all they need to know about bullying.

…until next time…