By Jay Foster
Bullying takes place all over the world. One study estimated that 200 million children across the globe are affected. School districts and governments are taking steps to educate the public and to enforce policy for the purposes of reducing the incidence of bully behavior in children. A quick look at some of the statistics reveals why this is so important.
It has been estimated that, in the United States, as many as half of all kids are bullied at some time, with about ten percent being regularly picked on. In Australia, it's one in four. A Canadian study found instances of being bullied in children as young as three years old. The age group from 11 to 14 is most affected, according to statistics from several countries.
While the incidence of schoolyard bully behavior is not increasing, the use of text messaging, internet chat room, and e-mail in a threatening or abusive way is on the rise. The number of victims of cyberbullies may be as high as 20 percent. In one study, one in five kids admitted to bullying by text message.
Being bullied has serious emotional consequences. A study in the UK found that victims were more likely to develop psychotic symptoms. Other studies showed that they're three times more likely to become depressed, and nine times more likely to have suicidal thoughts. 160,000 American kids every day skip school because of fear of being bullied. Physical manifestations of stress are common, including stomach aches, headaches, and trouble sleeping.
25 percent of UK victims surveyed said that the psychological effects of having been bullied persisted into adulthood. Women, in particular, were more likely to continue to be victims of verbal or physical abuse. Both genders often develop drug or alcohol dependencies.
Another top reason that it is so vital to put an end to bully behavior is that it doesn't end with graduation. One in four bullies has a criminal record by the age of 30, and they are more likely to abuse romantic partners and children. Bullies are more likely to be the victims of physical or emotional abuse at home. They are often lonely and doing poorly in school, characteristics that are seen in victims as well. About six percent of children interviewed for one study were both victims and bullies.
These statistics provide evidence for the seriousness of the problem. Creating an environment in which kids feel safe to report bullies, or to speak up when witnessing a situation, is critical. Programs should involve students, parents, teachers, administrators, school bus drivers, and the community at large.
The most vital element is to empower kids, giving them the tools and skills to stand up for themselves and for others when bullying situations arise. Bullies are looking for approval and status from their peers, and when it is refused to them, the behavior will cease. This principle, known as "operant conditioning," is more effective than punishment-based methods in changing behaviors. Of course, children who bully must be disciplined as well.
Are you looking for more information regarding bullying? Visit http://www.mississippibjj.com today!
Bullying takes place all over the world. One study estimated that 200 million children across the globe are affected. School districts and governments are taking steps to educate the public and to enforce policy for the purposes of reducing the incidence of bully behavior in children. A quick look at some of the statistics reveals why this is so important.
It has been estimated that, in the United States, as many as half of all kids are bullied at some time, with about ten percent being regularly picked on. In Australia, it's one in four. A Canadian study found instances of being bullied in children as young as three years old. The age group from 11 to 14 is most affected, according to statistics from several countries.
While the incidence of schoolyard bully behavior is not increasing, the use of text messaging, internet chat room, and e-mail in a threatening or abusive way is on the rise. The number of victims of cyberbullies may be as high as 20 percent. In one study, one in five kids admitted to bullying by text message.
Being bullied has serious emotional consequences. A study in the UK found that victims were more likely to develop psychotic symptoms. Other studies showed that they're three times more likely to become depressed, and nine times more likely to have suicidal thoughts. 160,000 American kids every day skip school because of fear of being bullied. Physical manifestations of stress are common, including stomach aches, headaches, and trouble sleeping.
25 percent of UK victims surveyed said that the psychological effects of having been bullied persisted into adulthood. Women, in particular, were more likely to continue to be victims of verbal or physical abuse. Both genders often develop drug or alcohol dependencies.
Another top reason that it is so vital to put an end to bully behavior is that it doesn't end with graduation. One in four bullies has a criminal record by the age of 30, and they are more likely to abuse romantic partners and children. Bullies are more likely to be the victims of physical or emotional abuse at home. They are often lonely and doing poorly in school, characteristics that are seen in victims as well. About six percent of children interviewed for one study were both victims and bullies.
These statistics provide evidence for the seriousness of the problem. Creating an environment in which kids feel safe to report bullies, or to speak up when witnessing a situation, is critical. Programs should involve students, parents, teachers, administrators, school bus drivers, and the community at large.
The most vital element is to empower kids, giving them the tools and skills to stand up for themselves and for others when bullying situations arise. Bullies are looking for approval and status from their peers, and when it is refused to them, the behavior will cease. This principle, known as "operant conditioning," is more effective than punishment-based methods in changing behaviors. Of course, children who bully must be disciplined as well.
Are you looking for more information regarding bullying? Visit http://www.mississippibjj.com today!
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