Parents must keep eyes peeled for signs of bullying

The effects of bullying can certainly have a significant impact on any child.  This has been seen in many recent acts of violence by individuals who were bullied and then retaliated against those who bullied them.

Some children also blame those whom they view as being responsible, for not intervening and protecting them from bullying. Children as well as young adults, who are victimized by bullies, often don’t see a way out of what they feel is a hopeless situation. They feel as if they cannot talk to anyone or that nobody will listen and defend them. Many times that hopeless feeling leads to a child having thoughts of suicide or harming others.

Victims of bullying fear school because many times school is the place where the bullying takes place. A bullied child doesn't want to be at school, and even when they attend cannot focus on their education. These children fall behind in their studies, which creates additional problems at school and at home due to poor grades. Victims also fear being physically harmed or being verbally abused and embarrassed.

The fear and stress of harm or abuse can lead to health issues brought on by the daily stress. They become withdrawn and social skills diminish. They don't have many friends and feel alone. They don't join teams or groups within the schools. These teams and groups are very important in developing social skills, and having a sense of being a part of something can be important to kids. The victims feel like they cannot talk to anyone, or they fear that the bullying will become worse if they report the incidents. Victims feel hopeless.

It is important for parents to recognize signs that their child may be the victim of bullying. The most important thing that parents can do is to have open and honest communication with their children. This open communication is not only important in regards to this issue but in regards to the many issues and changes that children go through as they grow into adults.  Some of the signs that your child may be the victim of bullying:

            Your child is withdrawn and does not want to interact with family or friends

            Your child is afraid to go to school and avoids social functions or interactions

            Your child's sleep pattern is disturbed and/or does not sleep at all

            Your child is sick a lot or complains about not feeling well

            Your child is missing personal property (clothing, phones, electronics, etc.)

            Your child has signs of physical abuse

            Your child does not have friends

            Your child avoids certain areas in town or school

            Your child does poorly in school

            Your child seems depressed and scared

            Your child lacks self confidence

These are just a few areas that can be affected by bullying.  Parents need to look for certain changes and have that instinct that parents often have that tells you something is wrong. Parents need to be courageous and do whatever it takes to have open and honest conversations with their children.

Bullying is nothing new and many people have been victims. The community needs to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves. If you see bullying or know of bullying you need to speak up. You may save a life or the future of someone important.

If you have any questions or would like more information about bullying or how you can help, please contact me at the Lemoore Police Department.

Sergeant James Chaney

Office (559) 924-9574

Dispatch (559) 924-5333        

Voice Mail (559) 9256857                  

Jim.Chaney@lemoorepd.com