Bullying
In the wake of Rebecca Sedgwick’s suicide, I am writing this blog to raise awareness and provide support to people who have been affected by bullying. October is not only Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s also National Bullying Prevention Month. Since its establishment in 2006, little has changed, and, in fact, bullying continues to be on the rise — and often leads to dreadful consequences.
Some may argue bullying has been around for hundreds of years, and it’s just a part of growing up, which is probably true. However, with the advent of social media and cell phones, it’s become much easier to torment someone with cruel texts, messages and insults. Not only are words instantly communicated to hundreds of people, but they’re there to stay. Can you imagine having to endure that type of ruthless hatred? I can’t. The thought is horrible, and it breaks my heart to continually read stories of children who are bullied.
According to some educators and psychologists, bullying has become an epidemic. It can come in many forms: physical attacks, emotional attacks and/or verbal attacks. What can we do as a community to help prevent this behavior?
- Parents, watch what your children do online. Be their best parent, not their best friend.
- When you see something, do something! Don’t wait until a situation escalates. Intervene as soon as you think there may a problem.
- Hold bystanders accountable. Bystanders give bullies an audience.
- Rear children who are caring, kind, courageous and responsible. It starts here!
- Learn how to recognize bullying and identify and monitor places where bullying usually happens.
- Get involved in anti-bullying campaigns and forums. Spread the word.
- Create opportunities for open dialogue with youth about bullying and intolerance.
As a community, we need to work together to model and practice empathy. We need to have respect for different backgrounds and perspectives and teach this belief system to our children. Let’s start by spreading the word: Bullying needs to stop.
