By Guest Contributor Nola Johnson, Author and Trusted Advocate Against Childhood Bullying
When an adult hears the word bullying, many believe it is merely calling someone a bad name or pushing and shoving on the playground, for example. However, there are many long-term effects of bullying that all parents, teachers, faculty and staff should be aware of. First, it is important to know exactly what bullying is. Bulling, as defined by the Center For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is any unwanted aggressive behaviors by another youth or group. It involves an observed perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times. When the definition of bullying is explained, it takes on a new context and therefore should be taken more seriously when one states that they are indeed, a victim of bullying. In my best selling book What Every Adult Needs to Know About Child Bullying, it is explained that child bullying has the same effects as any childhood trauma. This includes sexual abuse, physical abuse or any form of child abuse. These effects and symptoms include: PTSD, severe depression, anxiety, insomnia, and low self-esteem. With knowing this, it is essential that when a child states that they are a victim of bullying, the adult or guardian of that child, takes it very seriously, as these effects can last long into their adult life.
It is vital that all parents be aware of the signs and symptoms that their child maybe a victim of bullying, or if their child is, in fact, a bully. Signs that your child may be a victim of bullying may include: a child coming home with bruises, their personal items being stolen, or possibly withdrawing from family. Other signs include, nightmares and even bedwetting. Signs that your child possibly may be a bully include: aggressive behavior towards kids who may be deemed as “different,” special needs, or smaller than them; coming home with items that are not theirs, and constantly being reprimanded for unpleasant behavior at school or with siblings.
With the rates of suicides increasing due to bullying, parents, teachers, faculty, and staff should always do an investigation if a child complaints about being bullied. It is also necessary to get extra help for victims of bullying such as counseling or therapy. Parents are encouraged to know the policies on bullying for that particular school or school district, and most importantly, know the signs and symptoms.
About the Author
Nola Johnson is an Author and Advocate against childhood bullying. “I use my creative writings as a tool to empower children, while equipping parents, teachers, and educational staff with the tools needed to be aware of the signs and symptoms that a child may be a victim of bullying, or if a child is in fact, a bully. My focus is spreading awareness of the long-term Mental Health effects that this type of trauma brings; such as anxiety and depression, and how these issues can be reduced or avoided. I have collaborated with schools here in the Fort Worth, TX area, and other organizations to spread awareness. I myself was a victim of severe bullying as a child and now it is my passion to advocate against it.”
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