Understanding Bullying

Understanding Bullying

Bullying is a complex and relevant topic in today’s society when it comes to challenging behavior. According to stopbullying.gov, “Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time” (n.d., para. 1). In order to be able to have a positive effect on children who are bullying others, or who are being bullied, we must understand what bullying is, how it develops, and how we can prevent it.

To prepare for this discussion,

• Refer to the Week 5 Instructor Guidance for tips and examples that will support your success on this discussion.
• Read Chapter 13: Bullying.
• Read Bullying Prevention Strategies in Early Childhood EducationLinks to an external site..
• Choose one of the options below to watch a video (or videos) of a reading of a picture book on bullying:
  • Bully by Patricia Polacco Pt 1, Read by Mrs. SentalLinks to an external site. and Bully by Patricia Polacco Pt 2, Read by Mrs. SentalLinks to an external site.
  • Chrysanthemum by Kevin HenkesLinks to an external site.
  • One by Kathryn OtoshiLinks to an external site.
  • WingsLinks to an external site.

  • Understanding Bullying

  • 1. What is the definition of bullying?,

    2. How does bullying develop in children?,

    3. What strategies can prevent bullying in early childhood?,

    4. How can we positively impact children who bully or are bullied?,

    5. How do picture books support learning about bullying?

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    Comprehensive General Answer:

    Bullying is defined as repeated, unwanted, and aggressive behavior among school-aged children that stems from a real or perceived power imbalance. It can manifest physically, verbally, socially, or even digitally and causes long-term psychological and emotional harm to both victims and perpetrators.

    Development of Bullying:
    Bullying behavior typically develops in early childhood and is influenced by a variety of factors, such as home environment, exposure to aggressive behavior, lack of social-emotional skills, and peer dynamics. Children may mimic what they observe at home or in media, or use bullying to gain social dominance or cope with insecurity.

    Prevention Strategies:
    Effective prevention begins in early childhood settings. Educators and caregivers can use strategies like:

    • Establishing clear rules and expectations about behavior.

    • Promoting empathy through social-emotional learning activities.

    • Modeling respectful and kind communication.

    • Encouraging inclusion and celebrating differences.

    • Intervening early and consistently when signs of bullying appear.

    Supporting Children Involved in Bullying:
    For children who bully, it’s essential to address the underlying causes—often a need for attention, difficulty managing emotions, or imitation of aggressive behavior. Support should include counseling, behavior modeling, and positive reinforcement. Victims of bullying require a safe space to share experiences, validation of their feelings, and emotional support through adult advocacy and peer inclusion.

    Using Picture Books:

  • • Understanding Bullying

    
    Books like Bully by Patricia Polacco, Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes, One by Kathryn Otoshi, and Wings provide accessible ways to discuss bullying. These stories open dialogue, teach empathy, and help children see the impact of bullying and the importance of kindness and courage. Reading such stories fosters understanding, emotional connection, and behavioral reflection in young audiences.

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