How Bullying & Harassment Effects Children In School
Bullying and harassment are two of the most prevalent problems faced by children in schools. These two problems are detrimental to the social, mental, and academic growth of children. Many children experience bullying and harassment at school, which leads to a lack of self-confidence, anxiety, depression, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
In this blog post, we will discuss how bullying and harassment can affect children in school and how parents, teachers, and schools can work together to prevent these issues.
Bullying and Harassment: What is the Difference?
Bullying and harassment are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are different. Bullying is defined as the repeated behavior by an individual or group with the intention to harm, intimidate, or control another person. It can be physical, verbal, or emotional.
Harassment, on the other hand, is unwanted behavior that is offensive, threatening, or intimidating. Harassment can be based on a person’s race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic that is protected by law.
HarassEffects of Bullying and Harassment on Children
Bullying and harassment can have long-lasting effects on children’s mental and physical health. The effects can be seen immediately or over time, and they can last into adulthood. Below are some of the effects of bullying and harassment on children:
Anxiety and Depression: Children who are bullied or harassed may experience anxiety and depression. They may feel overwhelmed, sad, and scared, and they may become withdrawn and isolated from their peers.
Low Self-Esteem: Bullying and harassment can lower a child’s self-esteem. Children who are bullied may feel inadequate, unimportant, and unloved, which can impact their self-confidence.
Academic Performance: Children who experience bullying and harassment may perform poorly academically. They may struggle to concentrate and may miss school to avoid their bullies, which can affect their grades.
Physical Health: Bullying and harassment can also have physical effects on children. They may experience headaches, stomachaches, and other physical symptoms due to stress.
Suicidal Thoughts: In severe cases, bullying and harassment can lead to suicidal thoughts. Children who are bullied or harassed may feel like they have no way out and may contemplate taking their own lives.
Prevention and Intervention
Bullying and harassment are preventable, and schools, parents, and teachers can work together to prevent and intervene when bullying and harassment occur. Below are some of the ways that schools can prevent and intervene:
Education: Schools can educate students about bullying and harassment and the negative effects they have on individuals. This can be done through classroom lessons, assemblies, and workshops.
Policies: Schools can also create policies that prohibit bullying and harassment and outline consequences for those who engage in these behaviors. These policies should be clearly communicated to all students, parents, and staff.
Reporting: Schools should encourage students to report incidents of bullying and harassment to a trusted adult. They should provide multiple ways for students to report, such as through an online form, anonymous reporting box, or in-person to a teacher or counselor.
Support: Schools should also provide support to children who are bullied or harassed. This can be done through counseling, peer support groups, and other resources..
Intervention: When bullying and harassment occur, schools should intervene quickly and effectively. This may include separating the individuals involved, talking to them about the behavior, and providing support to those who were targeted.
Parents and teachers can also play a crucial role in preventing and intervening in bullying and harassment. Below are some ways parents and teachers can help:
Communication: Parents and teachers should communicate regularly about the child’s behavior and any concerns they may have.
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