How to Assess the Effects of Bullying

Bullying can turn a vibrant and friendly child into a depressed, withdrawn, unhappy one. In recent years, some children who were bullied have even turned to violence to resolve their problems. Read below for tips on finding out if a child is being bullied, and strategies to stop the bullying before the effects are permanent.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Study the child's sleeping habits. A child who is being bullied can fall asleep at odd hours or be prone to nightmares or night terrors.
2. Recognize when the child is trying to avoid school. The child may try to make excuses to stay home from school such as stomachaches, headaches or other illnesses. The stress of being bullied can cause physical illness in children just as it does in adults.
3. Watch the child as they go to school. If the child used to rush to the bus stop, but now hesitates and walks with their head down, it can be a sign that a child is being bullied.
4. Listen to the child's speech. One effect of bullying is loss of confidence and self esteem. Someone who is bullied often starts to become more withdrawn and may begin to stutter or stammer.
5. Check the child's school work. Stress can make it hard for a student to concentrate. If the child's grades begin to drop, there's a possibility they are being bullied.
6. Look for unexplained cuts or bruises on the child. Check the child at bath time and when getting them dressed.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes children are too embarrassed or scared to tell anyone they are being bullied.
• Excessive bullying can change a child's personality dramatically. Try to catch the bullying early so it can be stopped.