Bullying: Most Minimized Problem In Schools Today?

A new study finds that adults who were bullied as children are likely to not only suffer from depression and anxiety, but will have greater chances for physical illness as well.

The study is the latest in a barrage of news and facts about the short and long-term effects of bullying, however little is being done to combat the issue in schools. Typically, the issue receives national attention when something tragic happens — a child commits suicide or is severely injured — but bullying is widespread in American schools. More than 16% of U.S. school children say they had been bullied by other students during the current term, according to a survey by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Research links bullying to a host of educational concerns ranging from academic failure to depression, substance abuse, delinquency, gang proliferation, self-harm and suicide. According to self-advocacy and anti-bullying program pioneers at The Country School in Los Angeles, CA, creating safe environments is critical to learning.

“Safe environments equal learning environments,” says Olivia Brown of The Country School, who works with schools across the country to implement anti-bullying programs. “Schools need to create on-going, school wide programs that educate from the top down — administrators, teachers, parents and students — that address anti-bullying and teach self-advocacy.”

How can parents help their children deal with bullies? Communication is key — talk to your children and be aware of their activities at school and online, and give them tools to be be an advocate — both for themselves and others. And, urge schools to proactively implement anti-bullying programs that constantly address the issue.

Visit the International Bullying Prevention Association for more information and resources.

GLOSS founder Lolita Carrico shared a personal account of her experiences with bullying in schools at LAMomsBlog.com