Keeping Bullying In Perspective

By Rick Reiser, MS, JD

It is every parent’s fear that their child is or could become the victim of a bully. While bullying reports can be alarming, it is important to keep the bullying problem in perspective so that you can ensure that your child will be safe. Here is some important information for you as a family member:

1. Bullies Are Outnumbered. While a single bully’s actions have the power to affect every student, it is important to remember that the majority of students in any school are not bullies and never will be. The majority of students in your child’s school are there to learn and interact with others in a positive manner. Effective programs to reduce harmful student interactions build on the strength of the motivated positive student majority.

2. Talk With Your Child. By merely listening, you will discover your child’s academic and social progress as well as any concerns.

3. Partner With The Teacher. Communication with your child’s teacher is essential to your child’s success in school. If you feel that your child is being harmed by another student, make sure that the teacher is aware of the specific incidents that concern you. Work with the teacher to develop a plan to address the issue, including ongoing communication.

4. Be A Role Model For Your Child. Parents have more influence in their child’s life than anyone. Every situation, including proactively resolving a bullying situation, is an opportunity to teach your child positive ways to communicate and interact.

5. Get Involved In Your Child’s School. There are effective approaches to reduce harmful student actions in any elementary, middle or high school. This includes proper identification of the issue, empowering the majority of students who do not engage in these behaviors, staff development and effective reporting. None of these interventions can work, however, without the support of parents and the community.

With the right approach and support, any school can be successful in confronting the bullying issue.

Rick Rieser is a nationally recognized CEO, author and family advocate. He has created and managed nationally accredited child and adolescent programs. Currently, Rick is Program Director for Stop It…That Hurts! a comprehensive approach to reduce harmful student interactions in Ohio’s schools. Contact Rick at rrieser@rickrieser.com or 614.992.4259.  Click here to view an informational video on Stop it...That Hurts!