Bullying Think You’Re So Cool
Bullying: Think You’re So Cool?
Bullying is a widespread issue in U.S. schools, with more than 16 percent of school children reporting being bullied during the current term, according to a survey funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). This study highlights that bullying is not just a childhood rite of passage but a public health problem that can have long-lasting effects on both victims and bullies.
The Impact of Bullying
According to the NICHD study, children who are bullied are more likely to suffer from depression and low self-esteem, while bullies themselves are more likely to engage in criminal behavior later in life. The consequences of bullying can be severe and long-lasting, affecting both mental and physical health.
The Prevalence of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying, or electronic aggression, is another form of bullying that involves aggressive behaviors communicated over a computer or cell phone. A study conducted by researchers at the National Institutes of Health found that youth who are the targets of cyberbullying at school are at greater risk for depression than are the youth who bully them.
6 Things to Do If You’re Being Bullied
If you or someone you know is being bullied, it’s essential to take action. Here are six things you can do if you’re being bullied:
- Tell a trusted adult.
- Stay calm and don’t fight back.
- Stay near adults and in crowded areas.
- Avoid being alone when possible.
- Block the bully on social media and change your phone number if necessary.
- Keep evidence of bullying incidents.
