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Addressing Bullying
October 2, 2008 |
It’s estimated that nearly six million American children are involved in bullying,
whether they are the bully or are the target of harassment. Pediatricians and psychologists
agree that’s a statistic that should be taken seriously.
“It’s something that can have an enormous impact for the rest of the child’s life,”
says Dr. Thomas Schiller, a pediatrician with Lee Memorial Health System. If you
do find out your child is dealing with a bully, Dr. Schiller says there are some
important things to keep in mind when addressing the subject. “Listen very carefully
to your child, carefully, thoughtfully, lovingly. Don’t show that you are emotionally
upset because that will only upset the child more and it makes it worse.” He adds
that it’s also important to validate your child’s concerns and be supportive. “Try
to support your child’s feelings don’t blow them off, don’t dismiss these feelings
because they’re very real and they can cause permanent psychological damage even.”
Another thing that could be damaging to your child is encouraging them to retaliate
against their bully. Instead teach them other ways to handle the situation. “Do
not encourage retaliation, that only makes it worse. Teach them diplomacy and how
to be assertive in situations that are difficult and how to use humor as a tool
for getting around tense situations.”
If the bullying incidents become serious parents should report them to school authorities
and offer your child an opportunity for counseling. If a bullying situation becomes
violent enough where there is physical contact involved parents may even want to
consider contacting their local police department. |
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