Bullying is a serious issue that can have profound emotional and psychological effects on children and teens.
Murray Hewlett, chief executive officer (CEO) of Affinity Health, says bullying is a widespread concern that affects millions of children.
“Recognising common signs that a child may be experiencing bullying is essential for early intervention and ensuring their emotional well-being.”
She explains that bullying among children refers to repeated and intentional aggressive behaviours that cause harm, distress or fear. Bullying among children includes:
- Physical bullying like hitting, kicking, or pushing.
- Verbal bullying encompasses name-calling, taunting, or using hurtful words.
- Social bullying involves exclusion, spreading rumours, or manipulating friendships.
- Cyberbullying involves using technology to harass, threaten, humiliate, or intimidate others.
- Psychological bullying involves intimidation, manipulation, and control.
Signs that may indicate your child is being bullied include:
- Emotional changes: A child may exhibit increased irritability, anxiety or depression. They may become withdrawn, show a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, or signs of sadness without an apparent cause.
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits: A child may suddenly lose their appetite, skip meals, or overeat to cope with their feelings of stress and anxiety. Stress can disrupt a child’s sleep patterns, leading to insomnia, nightmares, or a sudden increase in night-waking.
- Physical complaints: A bullied child may experience unexplained physical complaints, such as headaches, stomach aches, or other somatic symptoms. They may also have unexplained injuries.
What to do if your child is bullied
- Create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their experiences and feelings.
- Keep a detailed record of each bullying episode, noting dates, locations, individuals involved, and any evidence you can gather, such as screenshots or photos. This documentation may be helpful when discussing the issue with school authorities.
- If bullying occurs, contact school staff, including teachers, counsellors, or the principal. Share the documented information and request a meeting to discuss the situation. Collaborate with the school to develop strategies to stop bullying and create a safe environment for your child.
Empower your child with coping strategies to handle bullying situations. You should Encourage your children to avoid confrontations, use assertive communication, and seek help from trusted adults when needed. Teach them the importance of staying composed and assertive when responding to bullies.
If your child is experiencing severe emotional distress or displays signs of anxiety or depression due to bullying, Consider involving a therapist, counsellor, or online support group like the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) or Childline South Africa. These professionals can provide the necessary support and strategies to help your child cope with the emotional impact of bullying.- Lastly, stay involved in your child’s life and support them while closely monitoring the situation to ensure the bullying stops and does not resurface.
