Peer Bullying

Peer bullying is defined as the repeated physical, verbal, social, sexual, or cyber violence that a child or a group of children in the same age group directs toward another child. Bullying often begins as what is perceived as “joking” behavior and gradually increases in severity over time. Children who are considered “different” from others are more likely to be exposed to bullying. These differences may include language, religion, race, and physical appearance. In addition, being academically successful, introverted, or quiet may also increase the likelihood of being bullied. Research suggests that boys both engage in and experience bullying more frequently than girls. It is also found that boys tend to prefer physical bullying, while girls are more likely to use verbal and social forms of bullying.

Types of Bullying

• Physical Bullying: Includes behaviors such as pulling hair, pushing, hitting, or attacking with dangerous objects, causing physical harm.
• Verbal Bullying: Includes insulting, spreading false rumors, calling names, or making fun of physical appearance.
• Social Bullying: Includes excluding someone from a group, isolating them, or ignoring them.
• Sexual Bullying: Includes attempts at unwanted sexual contact or making sexually inappropriate verbal or physical remarks.
• Cyberbullying: Includes humiliating someone online, sharing photos or videos without permission, sending insulting messages, or making offensive posts.

How Can We Understand If a Child Is Being Bullied?

A child who is exposed to bullying may suffer both physically and psychologically. Physically, symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, and fatigue are common. Psychologically, the child may become increasingly withdrawn and begin to show depressive symptoms. Their self-esteem may decrease, and they may develop social anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. These factors can also negatively affect academic performance. The child may refuse to go to school and have difficulty concentrating on lessons. Another coping mechanism may be mimicking the behavior of bullies in order to gain social acceptance. Some children may respond with increased aggression and anger problems as a way of coping.

Why Does a Child Become a Bully?

The main underlying cause of bullying behavior is often believed to be the family environment. Children who are neglected or exposed to violence within the family are more likely to display bullying behaviors. A neglected child may engage in bullying to gain attention from parents. On the other hand, children from overly controlling families may use bullying as a way to assert dominance and develop a sense of individuality.

Exposure to violence within the family can also serve as a role model, leading the child to perceive such behavior as normal and replicate it in social environments. Therefore, families carry a significant responsibility in prevention. It is important for parents to avoid neglect, support the child’s independence, and closely observe their behavior.

What Can Be Done for a Child Who Is Being Bullied?

Children who are bullied often hesitate to tell their parents or teachers. Therefore, it is very important for adults to be observant and recognize the signs. Once bullying is identified, direct intervention on behalf of the child should be avoided, and instead, the child should be supported in developing their own coping skills. This is because the child already feels inadequate and powerless in dealing with the situation, and acting on their behalf may reinforce these feelings.

The child should be encouraged and guided to handle the situation safely, without causing harm to others. For example, instead of acting through the teacher, encouraging the child to report the situation to the teacher themselves can help them cope more effectively and quickly. Additionally, engaging the child in activities that strengthen self-esteem can make it easier for them to cope with the situation.