Who Is It?
Bully –An individual who intentionally seeks out and attempts to victimize others. A bully typically possesses more “power” (physically stronger or bigger, has large circle of friends, or holds a higher social standing) than the victim. Victim – A student who is substantially weaker than the bully in one or more ways and who is on the receiving end of the bullying. Bystander – Children who stand on the “sidelines” and watch or know about incidences of bullying. Bystanders are much more likely to provide encouragement and support to the bully than they are to actively intercede to help the victim (Snell, et al., 2002). These bystanders can play a pivotal role by choosing to either encourage the bully or to protect the victim. |
What Is It?
Bullying can result in physical harm, emotional distress, social embarrassment or humiliation. There are 2 types of bullying: Direct – This occurs when the bully confronts the victim face-to-face. Examples include: verbal harassment or threats, physical attacks (e.g., getting punched, kicked, pushed down), or social embarrassment (e.g., taunting, refusing to let the victim sit near others on the bus). Indirect – This occurs when he bully attacks the victim's reputation and this usually when the victim is not around. For example, spreading malicious gossip or writing insulting graffiti about a peer, or organizing a group to ostracize that classmate and “not hang out” with them. Victims are at a particular disadvantage in indirect bullying because they may never discover the identity of the person or group responsible for the bullying. |
What are the signs that a child is being bullied?
· Academic problems (not paying attention, not completing assignments, forgetting important dates) · Refuses to go to school (frequently sick and asks to either stay home or be picked up) · Seems to have fewer friends than before (may stop receiving as many invites, phone calls, etc., May not talk about peers as much) · Begins to make comments that reflect low self esteem (I’m not good enough, No one likes me, I’m ugly/stupid/fat) |
We want all children and families to feel welcome here. If you believe that your child is being bullied, or if you believe that your child is bullying a peer, please contact the school. Our goal is to provide a safe, nurturing educational experience for all children where they can grow socially, emotionally, and academically.