Bullying remains a global issue. In every town, city and country, on every continent, there is an alarming number of children who are victims of aggressive behaviors. Regardless of whether it is physical or mental, the impact of such behavior is extremely concerning. When left unaddressed, it creates long-term developmental issues and is capable of causing severe consequences both in the immediate present and for the future too.
How to Spot a Child Being Bullied
Did you know it is more common for a child to stay a silent victim than it is for them to speak out? Without opening up the conversation about why bullying is wrong and empowering young people on what to do if they are suffering with this problem, it can be all but impossible to spot it at all. Noticing harmful behavior requires vigilance, insight and a whole team that cares enough to intervene. Classic signs that a child is a victim of bullying include:
- Withdrawal of engagement from the classroom and hobbies
- Aversion to conversation at home
- Anger episodes and lashing out at parents and teachers
- A change in sleep habits like staying up later or bedwetting
- General anxiety symptoms
- Phantom illnesses
- School avoidance
As an adult, if you see any of these clear indicators, take action immediately. This is your duty of care. The longer the problem is allowed to carry out, the bigger it will become, and the negative effects will only grow. Bullies seldom stop without intervention, and the victims often need help to bring the events into the spotlight and find a way through.
What to Do Next
The discussion of how to stop bullying in school has many answers. Firstly, if your instincts are right, and the child admits that bullying is a problem, then there are clear steps to be taken next. More than anything else, reassure the child that they are not alone with the problem any longer and that you will work together to find a resolution. This is an absolutely non-negotiable part of care giving and is designed to create a sense of relief and safety for the young person. Try not to lead the conversation too heavily but offer assurances and actions when prompted. After the behavior is confirmed, it will be time to investigate and consequence, ensuring this is done safely and the child is protected from further harm.
Controlling the Narrative
Aside from individual instances of bullying, there should be clear moves within all educational settings to involve children in the narrative. When a young person has knowledge and becomes engaged with a topic, it is empowering. Teach them why bullying is not okay and what they can do to help or avoid it. This can be done at any age, and absolutely should be. Encourage pupils to ask questions and explore the topic independently too and ensure that is a recurrent lesson throughout their school years.
When a child is bullied in school, they will suffer from poor mental health and may even exhibit classic ‘naughty’ behaviors. Don’t leave them behind — any change in behavior deserves an investigation and you may just be the thing that helps them break free.
