Bullying is often thought of as commonplace within the school system. Bullying was at one time thought of as an inevitable harsh truth of growing up. It wasn’t until bullying hit the internet that it really became a topic of major conversation. This is not to say that bullying of the past few decades wasn’t harsh or damaging. With the recent insurgence of cyber bullying it is just a whole different ballgame. Cyber bullying is growing into an epidemic of tragic proportions. Teaching your teen to deal with the school bully is a vital lesson regardless of whether it is online or in person.
Before you can teach your child to deal with the school bully it is important to recognize the “symptoms” of bullying. Bullying by its sheer nature is degrading, and it is likely a conversation your child will not openly initiate. If your child is suddenly becoming withdrawn, depressed, or is showing a dislike for school, chances are your child is being bullied.
Once you are certain that your child is the victim of bullying, ensure them that you understand. If you have any personal tales, sharing them may allow your child a sense of solidarity instead of feeling singled out. It is also important that you report instances to school authorities despite how minor they may seem.
Reassure your child that bullies only bully when they feel that they can get away with it. I am not saying that you should promote violence to your teen, but rather make them aware of the source of bullying. This methodology works only for verbal bullying. All physical bullying should be reported immediately. As awkward as it is to deal with retribution that may arise, to protect your child it must happen. The school cannot take action when they are unaware. Aside from that, chances are the bully may be bullying others.
Teaching your teen to deal with the school bully is difficult. Adolescence is already a difficult time for teens. Transitioning from junior high to high school, puberty, and peer pressure all compound this difficult time. Bullying should not be another burden to bear.
Teaching your child self confidence is also as important in teaching your teen how to deal with the school bully. Children with self confident behavior are less likely to be the target of bullying. Support your teen, and above all love them. Sometimes encouraging words are all that is needed to suppress the cycle of bullying.
Remember to keep communication with your child open. Children that can come to their parents are more likely to discuss instances of bullying. It is important to teach your teen how to deal with the school bully, but should the situation arise will help prevent it from escalating.
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