The impact of bullying is widely known.
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Those who went to school before the world of social media experienced, contributed to or witnessed bullying from as early as the primary school classroom.
Many would also have witnessed bullying in a workplace or within a community organisation.
For those being bullied, the torment would end when you went home.
Now the world is more connected more than ever before.
There are mobile phones, tablets and computers that are all accessible 24/7.
Most devices have anonymity, which can escalate the behaviour.
Bullying should not be confused with being a surly, aggressive or bullish person.
They are people who are dominant, pushy and opinionated. They’re not bullies.
Having an argument, isolated acts of violence or not liking someone does not constitute bullying.
Bullies are those who continue to misuse power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical and/or social behaviour. The repercussions are often physical or mental harm.
People become bullies for many different reasons. Often it is a learnt behaviour.
In January, Australia grieved for 14-year-old Dolly Everett. She took her life after being attacked by bullies online.
At the time of her death, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said: “Much more work is needed, from governments, health groups and the internet companies themselves, to prevent cyberbullying, stop it when it occurs and to minimise its impact when it does occur.”
Nearly 2 million students participated in the national day against bullying on Friday. This is nearly double last year’s official participation rate.
Schools are at the forefront of problem and the solution.
But the schools can’t and won’t make any progress without the parents and the community joining them.
And it’s not the devices we should be focusing on. Instead it’s the behaviour.
Whether it’s verbal or typed – bullying is bullying.
Conversations must be had with young people so they are confident in speaking up if they witness or on the receiving of bullying behaviour – even if their voice shakes.
- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800