Definition of Bullying in School

Unfortunately, many children know firsthand the definition of bullying in school. Bullying is when one or more students gang up on, abuse or mistreat another student, who often has a hard time defending herself.

Features

Students who are bullied tend to be passive, quiet, withdrawn, sensitive and sometimes are depressed and have low self-esteem.

Expert insight

Statistics on bullying can vary, but education.com estimates that one out of three children are bullied at school, online or in their neighborhood and one out of three children bully others.

Warning

Children who tend to be bullies are usually aggressive, domineering, impulsive, defiant of adults, quick to anger and lacking in empathy.

Effects

The effects of school bullying can be life-threatening. Students who are bullied are at risk for developing depression and low-self-esteem and may skip school, run away from home, abuse alcohol and drugs and even commit suicide. Bullies, on the other hand, are at a higher risk of becoming violent adults and committing crimes.

Prevention/Solution

Programs to educate students and parents on bullying have been launched as a means of prevention. Also, parents should keep the lines of communication open with their children and keep a look out for changes in behavior.

References

• American Psychological Association
• Education.com
• No Bully