Is My Child Being Bullied?

Does your child often complain of physical ailments, such as headaches?

Does your child frequently make up excuses as to why they can’t go to school?

Does your child frequently come home with damaged clothing, books, or other belongings?

Has your child lost interest in school or start doing poorly in school?

Does your child have trouble sleeping?

Does your child display unexplained cuts, scratches, or bruises?

Does your child appear depressed when he or she comes home from school?

Does your child have few friends or no friends at all?

Does your child have low self-esteem?

Does your child experience a loss of appetite?

While it is unlikely that your child is being bullied, he or she is displaying some signs that there may be something going on. Bullying is an intentional, aggressive and repeated behavior in which there is an imbalance of power or strength. Bullying can take several forms: for example, verbal, physical, and emotional bullying, but also cyberbullying, racist bullying and sexual bullying. If you feel there is something wrong with your child, don’t hesitate to talk with him or her as well as the school staff to understand better what’s going on. Assure your child that you love them, and you will do anything to help them. It may be useful to share your concerns with a psychologist.

Based on your answers, your child is displaying several signs related to being bullied. It’s important to talk with them and with the school staff to better understand the situation. When talking to your child, it’s better to not ask them if they’re being bullied. An example of a better approach would be: “(I’m worried about you,) Are there any kids at school who exclude you on purpose”? If, after talking with both your child and teachers, you don’t think your child is being bullied, try to understand if there are other problems that your child is experiencing. It may be helpful to share your concerns with a psychologist.

Unfortunately, your child is displaying the symptoms typically seen among kids who are being bullied. Make sure to not over-react but do take the situation seriously. Bullying can be frightening, and emotionally and physically damaging for your child. Let your child know that you love them, that it’s not their fault, and that you would do anything to help them out of this situation.