By definition, bullying is the use superior strength or influence to intimidate someone, typically to force him or her to do what one wants. Bullying is becoming worse and worse each year, especially in schools. Bullying is all about the power or the imbalance of power. It is a form of youth violence where one child or teenager causes harm, fear or distress in a peer through repeated attacks that are either physical, verbal or cyber bullying.
Lasting effects of bullying
Unfortunately, bullying can have lasting effects not only for the victim, but on the bully as well. Bullies are at increased risk for mental health problems, substance abuse and criminal behavior. Victims of bullying are more apt for poor school adjustment, mental health problems and suicide. October is National Bullying Prevention Month. It is a campaign put together in 2006 by PACER’S National Center for Bullying Prevention. They created this campaign to raise awareness of bullying prevention throughout the entire month.
Stop it before it starts
The best way to get rid of bullying is to stop it before it starts. Ways that parents can help do this include:
- Talking with their children’s teacher
- Talking with their children
- Discuss nonviolent alternatives to deal with bullies
The Schafer Law Office is doing what they can to put an end to bullying, as well. They have started the Buddies Not Bullies program to recognize students locally that have taken a stand against bullying. “Be careful with your words. Once they have been said, they can only be forgiven, not forgotten.”