Bullying

Some Facts About Bullying

Examples of bullying include being called names, being physically hurt, being threatened, being the subject of rumors, being isolated socially, and having one's belongings taken repeatedly
Approximately 10% of U.S. children are bullied
Bullying is most common in second grade and declines thereafter
Bullies are often aggressive towards parents, teachers, sibling and peers
Victims react more passively and anxiously to situations and are more insecure than most children
Bullying is most common in places where there is the least supervision: playgrounds, lunchrooms, hallways and bathrooms
Consequences of bullying range from fear of school with resulting depression, low self-esteem and chronic absenteeism to violence, including suicide and murder
Studies show that bullies in school have a higher rate of criminal activity in young adulthood
Victims should be encouraged to notify an adult when bullying occurs
Projecting self-confidence will help prevent victimization
"WALK, TALK, SQUAWK"
Parents should bring bullying to the attention of the school
Schools should adopt a no-tolerance policy regarding bullying

Adapted from Glew G, Rivara F, Feudtner C. Bullying: Children Hurting Children. Pediatrics in Review. 2000;21:183-189