First aid in case of bullies: how to protect your child

Your child just came home crying. There's a bully in their class.

At least one out of six children go through this at some point. But why do children (and adults) bully each other? And, most importantly, what can you do about it?

According to research from the Week against Bullying, one in six Flemish youngsters faces bullying at one point.

Is it nature or nurture? The discussion around what causes bullying has been going on a while. But who’s right? Are people born bullies, or is it something they learn?

Recent Dutch research shows that as much as 70% of bullying behavior is genetically determined. While that number seems very high, when you think about it, it’s not surprising. Researchers have long known that part of your personality is inherited. Some people are just more likely to have an antisocial or aggressive response to certain situations than others.

Still, that’s only one part of the truth. The difference in bullying presence between countries, regions, or even just different schools, proves that the environment plays a crucial role itself.

4 out of 10 boys in Lithuania are bullied. Only 1 in 20 girls in Sweden encounter bullying.

“An environment where bullying behavior is allowed plays a reinforcing role. Situations like that give the bully authority and power” a Child Psychology student tells {$company.Name}. “Bullies don’t usually realize the effect that has on their peers. By giving them free rein, you’re choosing their side”

How do we solve bullying?

Often people try to help by only addressing the child being bullied. But it’s just as important to address the cause of the problem. You can solve many problems by talking to the bully. It’s important to make them understand the consequences of their actions, and that you get them to open up about the reasons behind their behavior. You can often help them gain the attention and popularity they seek through different behaviors.

Also, ask that the bully apologizes to the child they bullied. That’s important, not just for the bully’s development, but also for the kid on the receiving end.

Do you want to learn more about dealing with problem behavior in children? Then take a Child Psychology course now!