Bullying: A very real threat
Bullying is a very real threat that some adolescent students have to face everyday. Victims of bullying can suffer from long term emotional, academic, and behavioral problems. And it can also cause loneliness, depression, and anxiety as a bullying victim begins to believe that something is wrong with them. Victims can also have a loss of confidence and an increase in susceptibility to illness. It is not easy to spot a victim of bullying without really looking closely because most victims are afraid to tell anyone about their problems and would prefer to handle it on their own, which is a bad idea. Preventing Bullying in schools require the effort of the victim, teacher, friends and the families of both the victim and the bully. Here are some strategies that can help:
If a person voluntarily comes to someone for help then they need to listen. Sometimes this is all that the victim wants and needs. (Note that many schools seem to think that this is all that is needed and, while their technical policy does not say so, in practice they refuse to take things beyond this level.)
After investigating the situation, it may be that intervention is necessary with the bully or bullies. The situation needs to be addressed and hopefully a resolution to the problem can be found.
Inform the parents of the victim and of the bully. Discuss possible solutions with them. Arrange a meeting with them if possible.
Follow up in communicating with the victim, the parents and the teachers about the situation.
Monitor the behavior of the bully and the safety of the victim on a school-wide basis.
