Coping Strategies and how to deal with Bullying

In life kids get teased.
Whether it’s an older sibling or friend, it should be done in a friendly, mutual and playful way. However teasing can easily become hurtful & cross the line into bullying. Bullying can be defined as ‘Intentionally tormenting an individual in physical, verbal, or psychological ways.’ 

Kids bully for a mix of reasons. Ranging anywhere from internalised behaviour to their own insecurities. Victims of bullying tend to be someone who seems emotionally or physically weaker, or appears different in any way. The act of bullying can result in the bully feeling more important, popular, or in control.

Individuals may bully others as an outwards response to the bullying they receive or witness in their own home. A hostile environment can cause a child to adapt negative behaviours which to a child will seem “Normal”.

What Are the Signs of Bullying?
Unless your child tells you themself or has visible injuries it can be difficult to detect.

Things to look out for:
A nervous or frustrated nature
Irregular sleeping or eating habits
Avoiding social situations e.g. taking the bus to school
A general low mood

What can parents do?
If your child tells you they are being bullied, listen. Be calm, attentive and offer your support. Tell them they’ve done the right thing trusting you with this sensitive information. Moments like this are crucial in building a relationship of trust with your child. It’s hard for kids to speak up, especially as they grow into young adults. Allow your child to express their emotions in a safe and open way.

It is unhealthy for anyone, especially a child, to restrict their emotions. So whether it be anger, sadness, frustration, etc. let them get it off their chest. Do this so that your child can get their frustrations out now and not on the bully. Be considerate of the harm the bullying may have caused your child.

Seek professional help if as a parent you feel it would benefit your child. They can offer support in encouraging confidence, detecting any psychological characteristics your child may have, and offer advice going forward.

As Parents we have a responsibility to be our child’s support when it comes to things like bullying.

We must do our best to give them a positive environment to come home to, develop a relationship of trust and be aware of the signs of bullying.