Recognition Leads to Prevention
As a parent or safe adult, you know the children in your life better than anyone. Pay attention to their behavior, and don’t just dismiss any worrisome changes. Recognizing the warning signs of being bullied or bullying others is an important first step in bullying prevention.
Signs a Child is Being Bullied
- Unexplainable injuries
- Lost or destroyed clothes, books and personal items
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches
- Faking illness
- Changes in eating habits
- Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Declining grades or loss of interest in school
- Avoidance of social situations
- Decreased self-esteem
- Self-destructive behaviors
- Talk of suicide
If you suspect your child is considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 to get help immediately.
Signs a Child is Bullying Others
- Frequent verbal or physical fights
- Bullies for friends
- Acting in an increasingly aggressive manner
- Frequent detentions
- Blaming others for his/her problems
- Worry about his/her reputation
- Comparing himself/herself to others