8 Signs of Bullying
April 10, 2012 by Erin
Do you know the signs of bullying? Credit: D Sharon Pruitt
Bullying is a major buzzword these days. From cyber-bullying to the old-school version, bullying and its effects are all over the news.
No one wants their child to be bullied. But would you know the signs of bullying if it were happening to your kiddo? Today, Mary Jo Rapini, MEd, LPC, shares eight signs that your child may be the victim of a bully.
8 Signs of Bullying
- Torn, damaged or missing pieces of clothing, books, or other belongings
- Unexplained cuts, bruises and scratches
- Fear of going to school, walking to and from school, riding the school bus or taking part with peers in organized activities
- No interest in school or their grades
- Weepy, sad, moody or depressed after-school behaviors
- Complaints of headaches, stomachaches or other physical ailments
- Loss of appetite or weight gain
- Anxiousness or low-self-esteem
In addition to these signs, remember that a sudden, drastic change in your child’s behavior might mean something is going on.
Do you keep track of your kiddos’ online interactions? Do you think you’d suspect if your child was a bullying victim? —Erin
Mary Jo Rapini, MEd, LPC, is a licensed psychotherapist and co-author with Janine J. Sherman, of Start Talking: A Girl’s Guide for You and Your Mom About Health, Sex or Whatever. Read more about the book at www.StartTalkingBook.com and more about Rapini at www.maryjorapini.com.
