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August 23, 2013

Fit Facts: What Does Bullying Look Like?

On a sitcom, a bully might be a tough 12th-grader who stuffs a puny freshman into a locker. In reality, bully behavior can start as early as preschool. If your child has been bullied — or has been the bully — he or she may not tell you.

Bullying is aggressive behavior that’s repeated and on purpose. It lowers kids' self-esteem. Bullying can cause hurt feelings, fear and anxiety. Being picked on, pushed around and shunned is not acceptable at any age. Kids who are victims are often too embarrassed or scared to tell their parents.

Stay alert for these signs:

  • Injuries such as black eyes or bruises
  • Lost or damaged clothes, books or toys
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Frequent stomachaches or headaches
  • Asking to stay home from school
  • Extreme hunger after school from not eating lunch
  • Other unexplained changes in behavior or mood

Similarly, parents should watch for evidence that their child is bullying others. These signs may include:

  • Frequently getting into verbal or physical fights
  • Coming home with new money or with items you didn’t purchase
  • Getting sent to the principal’s office regularly
  • Hanging out with friends who are bullies

What Can Parents Do?

  • If you discover your child is being bullied, teach your child to remain calm and to have the courage to walk away from a fight.
  • Teach your child to not react to a bully’s demands. Practice how your child will answer assertively when a bully confronts him.
  • Foster friendships. Children with a strong group of friends are less likely to be bullied.
  • Document any bullying and address it with school officials. Don’t contact a bully’s parents directly — that may worsen the problem.
  • If your child is the bully, let him or her know the behavior won’t be tolerated. Set a positive example, and work with the school to find solutions. 

 Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, Stopbullying.gov

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