Hello, LTS students & families!
Did you know that October is Bullying Prevention Month? I’m here to help everyone in the LTS community better understand the different types of bullying, how it can impact people, why it happens, and what you can do if you or someone you know is being bullied.
The four common types of bullying include: (a) physical bullying; (b) verbal bullying; (c) social bullying; and (d) cyber bullying. The CDC defines bullying as “any unwanted behavior(s) by another youth or group of youths, who are not siblings or current dating partners that involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated.” Bullying of any form can include but is not limited to: (a) name-calling; (b) physical pain; (c) exclusion; (d) public humiliation; (e) hurtful pranks; and (f) destroying one’s property.
Oftentimes, those who are bullying others don’t understand how their behavior is wrong, and how it makes the other person feel. According to STOMP Out Bullying, a nonprofit organization, those who have bullied others expressed that they did so because it made them feel stronger; they saw others do it; they were jealous of the person they bullied; they were being bullied at home; they felt they had to do it to be part of the “right” group; or it kept them from being bullied by other people.
Individuals who are being bullied often feel alone, scared, and unsure of who to turn to. Those being bullied may become fearful of attending school, riding the bus, using school bathrooms, and being alone in school hallways. It is not uncommon for these individuals to experience depression, anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, physical illness and suicidal thoughts. Studies have shown that 1 in 5 students are bullied; 32% reported being cyberbullied; 5.4 million students have skipped school at one point in their academic career due to bullying; and 9 out of 10 LGBTQ+ students experienced harassment.
If you or someone you know is being bullied, don’t be afraid to tell a trusted adult. This adult can be a parent, teacher, school nurse, school counselor or coach. Support systems are extremely important and showing someone you care goes a long way! When it comes to bullying, be an upstander, not a bystander! Upstanders DO NOT participate in bullying of any kind, encourage the bully, or laugh at those being bullied. Upstanders DO reach out with friendship, support and help to those in need, and promote inclusivity. Upstanders are courageous, assertive, and compassionate; they are activists and leaders!
If you can be anything, be kind.
-Patricia