Bullying
Bullying is typically repeated behaviour that is intended to cause harm to another person(s). Individuals who bully, say or do something intentionally hurtful to others and they keep doing it, with no sense of regret or remorse – even when targets of bullying show or express their hurt or tell the aggressors to stop.
Many children are faced with being bullied. Bullying can cause children and youth emotional, social and sometimes physical harm. It can impact how they do in school, how they feel about themselves and it can be an issue for the whole family. Some people think bullying is just a part of growing up, however the consequences of bullying can be very damaging and long standing.
Types of bullying:
- Physical bullying includes, but is not limited to, hitting, spitting, taking or damaging personal belongings and unwanted touching.
- Verbal bullying includes, but is not limited to, taunting, malicious teasing, making threats and racist or homophobic comments.
- Social bullying includes, but is not limited to, spreading rumors, excluding from a group, and manipulation of relationships.
- Electronic bullying (commonly known as cyberbullying) involves the use of cell phones, computers, and other devices to socially and/or verbally bully another.
Although bullying tends to happen in school, it is not just a school problem. Bullying can occur anywhere young people spend time together.
Many young people now spend time “together” online, making cyber bullying an issue. No matter where it happens, it is important to know that bullying is not a normal part of growing up.
Bullying can be prevented by teaching young people how to:
- Be caring of others
- Get along
- Deal with angry feelings
- Stand up for themselves without being aggressive.
(Source: Department of Education, Government of NL, What Parents Can Do To Prevent Bullying)
