Bullies have been around for as long as I can remember, and bullying tactics have only evolved since the introduction of social media and technology. There's not only bullying going on at school, but many kids find it easy—or easier—to bully other kids while hiding behind their smartphone or computer screens.
Bullying can wreak havoc on a child's self esteem and make them feel powerless. School officials can't always come to the rescue, so as important as it is to spot signs of bullying, it's also our job as parents to ensure that our children aren't the ones doing the bullying.
According to StopBullying.gov, these are some key signs to watch for that might indicate that your child is participating in bullying and how you can handle it.
Behavioral Issues
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If your child is hot-headed and impulsive, that could mean that he or she is a bully. Does your child get angry when he or she doesn't get their way or lack empathy for others? That could be a telltale sign they are being a bully. Blaming others for their problems and lacking the ability to accept responsibility for their actions could also be signs your kid is involved in bullying.
Trouble at School
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Have you gotten a call from the school regarding your child's behavior? If they are fighting with or picking on other kids, you might have a bully on your hands. Set up a meeting with your child's school counselor and discuss the situation. School counselors are trained for this type of behavior and can likely help you come up with a solution to the problem.
Popularity Contest
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Kids always want to be popular and well liked, but their popularity (or lack thereof) might entice them to tease other kids so they can act "cool" in front of their friends. Encourage your child to earn the friendship of their peers with kindness instead of aggression or negativity.
Aggressive Friends
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We all want our kids to have friends, but if your child is hanging out with another child who seems aggressive, it could be rubbing off on your child. Engage in open communication with your child about their friends and who they hang out with. Don't be afraid to reach out to their friends' parents--the fight against bullying is everyone's battle after all.
Trouble at Home
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If your child's life at home involves verbal or physical abuse, they could very well mimic that behavior and turn it onto their peers. Major life changes or disturbances in the household could trigger unusual or out-of-character behavior as well.
Communication is Key
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If you think your child could be participating in bullying, you should have a conversation with them about their actions or behavior right away. Talk to them about feelings and how certain words and actions can hurt someone's feelings. Set up a scenario if you need to and see how they would feel if the tables were turned and someone was bullying them.
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