How we can help with bullying in schools?

Every individual has a role to play in preventing school bullying, and most of us have directly or indirectly participated in, witnessed, or experienced bullying behaviors in our school experiences. No matter what aspect of your life you are involved in – as a student, an educational professional, a parent, or a member of the wider society. It’s also necessary to teach kids when and how to report bullying when they see it.

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Learn more about the causes and consequences, bullying prevention, what you should do if your child has been bullied, and the services we offer at Healing Hearts and Minds with Horses.

What is bullying?

The act of bullying must match specific criteria before it is labeled bullying. It is characterized by bad intentions, an imbalance between power and authority, repetitive behavior, anxiety, and aggressive behavior. Bullying occurs in all settings, whether it occurs in schools, beyond the walls of schools, or on campus.

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Types of Bullying

A cyberbully is someone who uses an electronic device to make threats, harass, or bully somebody else. Texts, photos, videos, and social media posts are all included. When it comes to cyberbullying, schools should reinforce bullying prevention strategies. 

Individuals who are being bullied directly are different from those who are indirectly bullied. Indirect bullying differs from direct bullying. An example of direct bullying would be physically grabbing something from someone or screaming in their face. An indirect bullying incident is when a classmate spreads misinformation about another student.

Bullying that causes emotional distress to another individual is called emotional bullying. An example would be to say or write unkind things, to create conflict, or to disregard them on purpose.

The term “verbal bullying” refers to any form of language used to cause offense to another person. Examples include using foul language, insulting language, being judgmental of a person’s looks, using disrespectful terms, or mocking.

An act of verbal or physical bullying that is based on someone’s gender or sexual orientation is referred to as sexual bullying. Examples include pressuring a person into intimacy, inappropriate comments, or inappropriate touching.

Bullying can be caused by a variety of factors. There is a very high likelihood of bullying occurring if there are students with violent behavior traits in a school environment that supports it. Inadequate interpersonal skills, low self-esteem, or a difficult upbringing may all cause bullying incidents.

Bullying Signs to Watch for

An individual’s bullying behavior is a long-term process. It is therefore important to be alert to early warning signs and address bullying, and the bullied student must be taken care.

Here are a few signs:

A bully’s arrogance and superiority can be detected by observing their impressions and actions. Students who appear disengaged, uninterested, and ashamed should be paid attention to when it comes to the victims.

Taking Action If Your Child Is Bullied

Parents are often shocked to learn their children are being bullied, but they can take action to stop the bullying. Make sure you gather as much detail as possible about the bullying instance. The school should also be informed about how bullying impacts your child’s development, along with documentation. Finally, if the bullying violates any laws, notify your child’s school with a formal complaint. It’s always the positive behavior that helps and comforts most kids.

Having done this, the parents must check on the child to make sure they are okay. Parents should notify the school counselor so that they can help their child. 

How can you help as a teacher?

When a teacher communicates openly with students, they will feel more comfortable talking about problems like bullying with them. The key is to have classroom discussions to facilitate this communication. Through class discussions, students can discuss topics beyond academics. Teachers and parents can benefit from these meetings by being updated on what’s happening at the school and in their children’s lives. Keep an open mind during these sessions.

Having a sense of being listened to is important to students. In particular, if they feel they’ve been bullied, they should feel safe speaking with their teachers directly. Students who are being bullied might not want to speak up in class if the bully is present.

Here is how we at Healing hands and minds with horses can help

It is essential to rebuild a child’s confidence over time after they have been bullied. Getting to know their own attitudes and how they respond to bullying starts with self-exploration.

The equine therapy we provide is suitable for children. Through our counseling sessions, we can support them. There are several types of sessions we can provide. Horses are highly emotional and sensitive creatures. In order to comfort and support us, they can sense our emotions.

Bullying can be helped by Equine Assisted Therapy. These lessons can greatly help young people gain a better understanding of themselves and others. The more you are aware, the easier it will be for you to stop bullying or being bullied. Horses can serve as teachers, healers, and guides for those who are willing to be taught.

There are many reasons for you to consider a form of therapy in a safe environment for young people if you are or know someone who is being bullied. You can reach out to us if you are a parent who is worried about your child’s health or development.

Today, bullying affects youth all over the world. There are short-term and long-term consequences associated with bullying. The most effective system for addressing bullying is comprehensive school wide programs.