Why Is Bullying Such A Problem

Bullying is nothing new in schools but it has escalated tremendously. For instance, technology has given bullies another way to terrorize their victims. Despite steps taken by parents and teachers it is still a huge problem.

“Not my child”

This is usually the number one reason that bullying continues – denial. On the part of the bully, their parents don’t believe that their child is capable of such behavior. No parent wants to admit to themselves that their child is hurting other people. They consider the social stigma and the embarrassment and deny the accusations which only perpetuate the problem for the victims. It also gives the bully a license to continue their current behavior.

On the other hand, parents of bullied children can also live in denial. They don’t want their child viewed as weak so they don’t admit to themselves that someone could be hurting their child. This action also can perpetuate the problem of bullying and cause the child to clam up and submit to the torment.

Let’s Face the Music

Make no mistake – bullying is abuse. In the adult world, the law prosecutes people who use physical, verbal, psychological or sexual means to ridicule, torture and harass another individual. Should it be any less for kids?

The old adage that “kids will be kids” is outdated and frankly, dangerous. Yes, kids do get into altercations at school on occasion when conversations get heated and emotions run high. But, bullying is a willful and malicious act by one or many children towards another. It doesn’t just occur once, but continuously

Bullying is also unseen by many teachers and administrators. The bully is careful not to let anyone in authority know what they are doing. When you talk to a teacher or a principal, they may well be in the dark about what is happening. But, don’t let up in your pursuit because of this. Your child is still in real pain.

Bullying may begin in school but it can end somewhere else. Cyber bullying occurs on the Internet. Here’s a scenario: Your child is ignored or gossiped about at school by their “friends.” At night, they get emails and texts that are malicious or threatening. Someone may even post rude pictures and comments about them on social media networks where your child is sure to see them.

The harassment doesn’t have to stop at school. It can continue 24/7 for your child. Bullying has made its way into our homes, all without many parents, teachers or administrators knowing about it.

As parents, students, teachers and the community, we need to work together to fight back against those who bully. Take every report seriously because there is a child who is being victimized.