BULLYING Bullying

Types of bullying common Cyber Corporate uncommon Gang Client Everybody knows Physical Verbal

Causes of Bullying Psychologist used to believe that bullies have low self-esteem, and put down other people to feel better about themselves. Bullies have actually been bullied before at home or at school They lack compassion, impulsive control and social skills. They enjoy being cruel to others and use bullying as an anger management tool. For attention and try to prove their dominance over other students

Effects of being bullied Have higher risk of depression and anxiety, including the following symptoms, that may persist into adulthood: o Increased feelings of sadness and loneliness o Changes in sleep and eating patterns o Loss of interest in activities Have increased thoughts about suicide that may persist into adulthood. In one study, adults who recalled being bullied in youth were 3 times more likely to have suicidal thoughts or inclinations. Are more likely to have health complaints. In one study, being bullied was associated with physical health status 3 years later. Have decreased academic achievement (GPA and standardized test scores) and school participation. Are more likely to miss, skip, or drop out of school. Are more likely to retaliate through extremely violent measures. In 12 of 15 school shooting cases in the 1990s, the shooters had a history of being bullied.

Effects of being the bully Have a higher risk of abusing alcohol and other drugs in adolescence and as adults. Are more likely to get into fights, vandalize property, and drop out of school. Are more likely to engage in early sexual activity. Are more likely to have criminal convictions and traffic citations as adults. In one study, 60% of boys who bullied others in middle school had a criminal conviction by age 24. Are more likely to be abusive toward their romantic partners, spouses or children as adults.

Effects of people who witness Have increased use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs. Have increased mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. Are more likely to miss or skip school.

Stopping the cycle Before you can stop bullying, you have to recognize there is a problem. If the child is still in grade school, the most discrete way to handle this is to raise the matter with the school, in the child’s presence. Most school administrators have dealt with the problem before and can provide many different ways to stop bullying. If the child is older, then you will need to sit them down and discuss the matter and let them provide possible solutions with your responsibility being just to be there for them. Comfort the victim and ensure they report the issue Don't support or "cheer on" a bully Step in to stop the bully. Chances are most people feel the same way about the bully

Role Of Bullies The RINGLEADER - yes, the one that calls all the shots! Starts the 'action' (whatever type!) - in control and takes the lead. The ASSISTANT - the individual that 'assists' the bully. For example, in a physical bullying situation, the Assistant could be involved by holding down the target to help the Ringleader. The REINFORCER - the other annoying one that 'eggs on' the Ringleader. For example, in a physical bullying situation the Reinforcer may shout, 'Go on give them a good kicking!'

Role of Bystanders Henchmen or assistants to the bully – these bystanders don’t start the bullying, but once it’s going on, they get involved in support of the bully Supporters – these bystanders support the bullying but they do not get actively involved in its perpetration Passive supporters – these bystanders support and like the bullying but do not display any open support Disengaged onlookers – these bystanders show or feel neither support or opposition to the bullying Possible defender bystanders – these bystanders don’t like the bullying and feel like they should stop it; but don’t Defender bystanders – these bystanders take a stand and get involved in defense of the victim, against the bully

Role of Victims Tell a trusted adult Tell a trusted friend Talk to a trusted teacher or social worker DO NOT push it aside and hide it from others Confront bullying right as it starts

Where does this happen? Bullying happens at school and on the internet. It also happens at work. Bullying also happens during class or on the way to school.

Why does it happen? They think: It's a game I can get away with it It will make me popular They are so weak It does not hurt Everyone does it The target: Wrong place /wrong time Does nothing Reacts and becomes upset, angry, sad Has poor social or assertive skills Limited support network Over protective parents Not used to blocking mean kids Special child Don’t know how to stand up for themselves because they live in caring environments Experience severe life stressors, (eg parents difficulties, financial problems) which interfere with their ability to develop social resilience and protect themselves. Some children believe in justice and fight back. ‘How dare they tease me?’ ‘He started it.’ Sensitive children can expect others to treat them as carefully as their families do. But other kids don’t care how they feel and take advantage the target’s vulnerabilities to play the bully game. Some expect to be treated with respect and regard to their feelings but have no interest in how they use, abuse or treat others. The other child retaliates and bullies back.

C.A.B (Campaign Against Bullying) An awareness program established by the LNE Student Council as a part of a solution for the bullying problem.