Interesting fact:
The earliest form of this word was used in the 1500s to mean sweetheart. Over time it moved to mean fine fellow and thereafter moved to mean meaning recorded for the word bully as hostile and mean. The word bullying in today’s context has taken a different shade completely from what it meant ages ago. What was used to describe a love or connection is now seen as intolerant and insensitive.
There are basically four broad classifications of bullying.
Social or relational:
Definition: This type of bullying happens when a child is alienated from joining a play group. Deliberate act to cut off the relational support of friends or colleagues Example: When a group of friends gather together a trip to a new by resort while all the while one girl is ignored and not invited for this trip. This is a deep-seated pain that the person will go through. Effects: Feelings of abandonment and loneliness sets in the heart and mind of the person.
Cyber bullying
Definition: This type of bullying is rapidly increasing and more individuals are falling prey to it. This is a form of bullying where a child is targeted and made fun off on a webpage or chat. Example: When someone posts something like this, “Simon is a loser. Why would anyone what to hang out with him. He is so lame.” Effects: This often leads to rejection and feelings of despair. This is a tricky situation as the parent needs to be aware of the child’s online activities and gauge from that the line of action suitable for the situation.
Physical bullying
Definition: Any sort of physical intimidation is considered to be physically bullying. Repeated hitting, kicking, tripping, coercing, blocking. Example: A child walking to the class suddenly finds that the boys walking behind him had pulled the pants down and he was embarrased.
Effects: This makes a person very afraid to talk about his victimisation and he will be withdrawn.
Verbal Bullying
Definition: This type of bullying uses cruel and demeaning words which could involve name calling, threatening and disrespectful comments usually targeted towards one’s attributes such as religion, colour, sexual orientation, appearance, etc.
Example: "Brian you are so fat and dark, just like your mom!" Effects: This leads to children becoming withdrawn and moody refusing to eat and participate in any activity.
What can parents and loved ones do to help the child?
1. Talk to the child and see if the child is experiencing difficulty with these issues. Have open conversations with the child. Have a real relationship with your child.
2. Spend time in doing activities together and allow the child to open up to you.
3. Take counselling help as soon as you see signs of it affecting the child. Reach out to friends and teachers to see if this has been an ongoing sign and if they have noticed differences over the past few weeks.
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