Bullying is a Big Problem

Whether is is traditional bullying found on the playground or at the lunchroom table or the 21st century-style bullying in cyberspace, bullying is a problem that is on the rise. Bullying is a problem that affects millions of students, and it has everyone worried as it hits the news channels and online media.

Bullying is when a person is picked on over and over again by an individual or group with more power, either in terms of physical strength or social standing.

Two of the main reasons people are bullied are because of appearance and social status. Bullies pick on the people they think don't fit in, maybe because of how they look, how they act (for example, kids who are shy and withdrawn), their race or religion, or because the bullies think their target may be gay or lesbian.

Reluctant to seek help, victims feel ashamed and powerless, and fear retaliation should they “rat out” the bully. It is unrealistic to expect kids to make rational, self-protective decisions while under emotional stress.

Verbal bullying can also involve sending cruel instant or email messages or even posting insults about a person on a website — practices that are known as cyberbullying.

As a PTA, you can help education parents about bullying and what to do to make it stop. PTAs can also help advocate for proper policies and anti-bullying programs to protect and education children in the schools.

Whether your PTA is at the elementary, middle or high school level, be sure participate actively to make sure bullying does not become a problem at your school. And if there is a problem with bullying, make sure your PTA is aggressive in finding a solution.

Resource Links:

Stop Bullying Now/US Government

Teens Against Bullying

Parent Power Now

KidsHealth.org