A child undergoes various situations in is life before evolving as an adult. Confrontations surface while playing with mates. Teasing may also be associated. But this is not the matter of concern. Teasing, fighting, confrontations are all part and parcel of growing years. The situation gets tedious when it takes an ugly turn. Like tormenting, abusing verbally or intentionally trying to threaten the younger or the weaker child. It is called as bullying if repeated over and again with an intention to hurt. It can be verbal, physical or psychological in nature. It can range from calling names to spreading rumours or even extorting money or other treasured possessions.
Bullying behaviour is seen all over the world and almost in all sections of society. It might start at an age as early as preschool and might intensify in the transitional teenager years. There can be various reasons behind this kind of aggressive behaviour. Often the victim is shy and introvert and weak in built as compared to bully. On the other hand, bullying is a behaviour which does not necessarily demand a great built.
A bully tries to attract the attention of others in a negative manner. It can be correlated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Similarly children coming from aggressive or disturbed family background showcase the bullying behaviour. Sometimes bullies just gives around what they have been through as retaliation. The affected child is most of the times submissive and docile in nature.
It is extremely hard to identify if the child is facing bullying at school or community. Generally the affected children don?t talk with their parents about the incidences. They are either too scared or feel embarrassed to admit such behaviour happening to them. But parents might notice a quite withdrawal of the children from daily situations. The kid may repeatedly complain of false aches and avoid going school.
Frequent crying or getting upset often over trivial matters is also sign of bullying. Any kind of unexplained bruises or abnormal behaviour of the children must be checked and investigated thoroughly. On identifying the problem the foremost thing is to build confidence in the child. It is important to make him understand that he is listened to and his feelings are respected. Pay attention to each and every detail the child narrates.
Sometimes it is hard to identify the gravity of the situation and any loose thread may lead to serious consequences. School authorities, or teachers, or counsellors at school may be approached regarding the matter. If necessary, parents of the bully can also be approached but it is always advisable to do so in front of counsellors only.
Bullying is a serious matter and should be strongly dealt with. Even if the child has not yet faced any such situation it is important to explain him such prevalent behaviours in the society and ways to tackle it. If left unattended, this childhood problem can have serious effects on the personality of the child throughout his life. Recent shootings at various schools in US are thought to be an expression of physical bullying
