Arkansas State University Bullying Kristen McCormick Arkansas State University kristen.mccormic@smail.astate.edu

Bullying: The Definition verb use superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants.

Types of Bullying Physical Bullying Verbal Bullying Making rude hand gestures towards another person Tripping Pushing Hitting Kicking Breaking or stealing someone else's possessions Verbal Bullying Making inappropriate comments to another person Teasing someone because of their appearance Name-Calling Making threats to physically harm someone

Types of Bullying cont. Cyberbullying Using any form of technology to hurt or harm others Sending or posting photos online, that are not yours – typically to embarrass others Making untrue, or negative, comments about someone else in order to hurt them. Sending hurtful text messages, direct messages, or emails to others

Bullying’s Location Bullying can take place anywhere – Sometimes it is visible bullying, but often times the bullying goes unseen. Students are often bullied in places adults are distracted and can’t see what is going on. On the playground In the bathroom On the bus In groups of neighborhood kids On the internet

Bullying’s Impact Safety Bullying can affect everyone Education Fear of other students Self Harm and Suicidal thoughts Increased aggression Education Low grades High dropout rates High rates of absences Health Low-self esteem Depression risk Increased anxiety Bullying can affect everyone Bullying is linked to many negative outcomes. Such as impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicidal thoughts It is so very important to pay attention to children and talk about bullying.

Reasons for Being Bullied There are many different reasons students get bullied, but often times boys and girls get bullied for different things. Boys Girls Being too smart Not being athletic enough Being too shy Have very few or no friends Being overweight Being too skinny Going through puberty earlier or later than others Being sick Having a disability

How do you know if your child is being bullied? If your child exhibits any of these behaviors or has any physical marks, seek professional help. Physical marks such as cuts, scrapes, or bruises that can not be explained Would rather be alone than at school or with friends Suddenly doesn’t want to hang out with their regular friends Appears to be mood for no apparent reason Often afraid to be alone; often very clingy

What can you do as a parent? Know the warning signs and be aware of your child’s normal behaviors. Talk with your child regularly about what is going on in their lives. If you think your child is being bullied, talk to school officials and school/professional councilors. Don’t take the situation into your own hands, it can make it worse. Talk to your child about bullying and make sure they know the consequences.

What can I do as a Teacher? Know my students’ personalities. Watch for behavior changes. Talk to students about bullying and why it is not acceptable in any place or form! If a student seems to being bullied, don’t wait until there is physical evidence – ACT IMMEDIATELY.

There is always an option… NEVER turn the other cheek to bullying If you think a child is being bullied, talk to the student and others around them to investigate the situation. You never know what a child is experiencing – always be understanding and helpful

References https://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/effects/index.html http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2010/04/bullying.aspx https://www.stopbullying.gov/