For participating schools across the nation, October is widely recognized as National Bullying Prevention Month. This month provides a crucial opportunity for faculty to take decisive action against the bullying epidemic that affects educators, parents, and students alike every day.
Bullying can involve physical harm, property damage, social exclusion, name-calling, or online behaviors. However it manifests, it involves perpetrators intent on causing harm, creating distress, or instilling fear. No school is immune from this danger, making this Fall semester a perfect time to implement comprehensive anti-bullying strategies. Let’s explore what this can look like.
Bullying has become increasingly prevalent, particularly in middle schools. Studies show that 26% of middle school students experience bullying compared to 16% of high school students. This spike in middle school bullying is often attributed to…
Cyberbullying has also taken center stage, with one-third of students reporting they have been victimized. The rate is highest among grades six through eight at 28%. A recent survey found that screen time for children aged eight to twelve rose to five hours and 33 minutes in 2021 (and more than eight hours for teens). Much of this also took place without any adult supervision.
This form of bullying is especially dangerous for several reasons:
The consequences of bullying can be severe and long-lasting. 68% of kids who have been harassed online have mental health issues. Bullying is a primary reason why students suffer from mental and emotional health issues, which also hinder their ability to learn and engage at school. Victims may develop academic difficulties, emotional distress, engage in risky behaviors, or resort to self-harm. Further, those who bully others are more likely to engage in risky behaviors even into adulthood – including substance abuse, violence, criminal activities, dropping out of school, and being abusive in future relationships.
It's crucial to recognize the many forms of bullying our young people can be exposed to:
Note: If a child within your care is being cyberbullied by someone anonymous, it’s important to first document everything. Take screenshots of the bullying messages, posts, or comments, and report the activity to the platform where the bullying is happening. Many social media platforms and apps have ways to report abusive behavior and will take action if community guidelines are being violated. Additionally, contact the school’s channels of authority, as they may have resources or be able to provide support (even if the bullying is happening online). Schools often have partnerships with law enforcement or local organizations to help trace or stop anonymous cyberbullying.
Training educators and parents to recognize and respond to red flags that signal a child is being bullied goes a long way. Here are ten key warning signs to look out for:
Schools can benefit from technology-based systems that offer multiple submission methods, ensure confidentiality, and provide diverse support options. STOPit Solutions’ platforms offer a comprehensive approach including the following features:
Research indicates that effective bullying prevention programs can help significantly reduce bullying at school. The results can be widespread, including reducing school absentee rates, raising student performance, lowering student stress levels, and increasing mental, emotional, and physical health.
When implementing anti-bullying programs, consider including intervention programs, online reporting systems, and ways to increase access to help. Look for an anti-bullying approach that creates a safer, healthier, and more respectful environment that enhances learning processes.
Sustaining bullying prevention efforts year-round requires integrating anti-bullying strategies into the school culture…
National Bullying Prevention Month serves as a catalyst for schools to take proactive steps in combating bullying. By raising awareness, implementing comprehensive prevention programs, and utilizing trusted technology solutions—schools can create safer, more inclusive environments that enhance academic performance and support students' well-being.
It's crucial to communicate that no child should ever have to endure bullying. Students, teachers, and families can work together to forge an accepting school culture where students stand up for each other and bullying is not tolerated. While October is a focused time for these efforts, the fight against bullying must always continue in order to ensure the safety and success of every young person!