Bullying and Teasing: No Laughing Matter

Bullying: Know the facts about bullying, even if you don’t think bullying affects your child.

Effects of Bullying

If your child is the victim of bullying, he may suffer physically and emotionally, and his schoolwork will likely show it. Grades drop because, instead of listening to the teacher, kids are wondering what they did wrong and whether anyone will sit with them at lunch. If bullying persists, they may be afraid to go to school. Problems with low self-esteem and depression can last into adulthood and interfere with personal and professional lives.
 
Bullies are affected too, even into adulthood; they may have difficulty forming positive relationships. They are more apt to use tobacco and alcohol, and to be abusive spouses. Some studies have even found a correlation with later criminal activities.

Warning Signs

If you're concerned that your child is a victim of teasing or bullying, look for these signs of stress:

• Increased passivity or withdrawal 
• Frequent crying 
• Recurrent complaints of physical symptoms such as stomach-aches or headaches with no apparent cause 
• Unexplained bruises 
• Sudden drop in grades or other learning problems
• Not wanting to go to school 
• Significant changes in social life — suddenly no one is calling or extending invitations
• Sudden change in the way your child talks — calling herself a loser, or a former friend a jerk .