Bullying

It’s out there. Everywhere. And it never sleeps.

Deafening or wordless. Blatant or subtle. Mental, emotional, physical.

Classrooms, computers, churches, cell phones, work places, playgrounds – you may never see it, and what’s worse, you may feel like there’s nothing you can do about it.

But the monster is always waiting, always searching, and, with the proliferation of social media, always ready to strike.

Bullying affects youth of all ages and can wreak havoc not only on the victim, but also on his or her family, friends, and even the climate of the entire school and community.

Sticks and stones can break more than just bones.

Research shows that bullying affects students’ social and emotional well-being and their overall physical health. What’s more, whether they have personally experienced bullying or simply fear for the safety of their peers, students may find themselves unable to focus on learning and consequently achieving less.

But it doesn’t stop there.

Outside the classroom, evidence indicates a link between bullying and sexual harassment and dating violence.

Just being a teenager is hard enough; adolescent development poses unique challenges to implementing bullying prevention and intervention strategies.

You love your child. You want to see him or her healthy, happy, and safe.

But there’s just so much confusion.

The most common misconception about helping teens deal with bullying:

Myth: Teens simply need to “work things out” among themselves.

The biggest mistake adults can make lies in believing that teens can – or even should – resolve bullying on their own. When someone suffers at the hand of a bully, the solution is much bigger than the victim: it takes a group.

How therapy can help?

In session, teens will create a network of trustworthy people available 24/7 in all aspects of their lives.

They’ll have a chance to talk openly and honestly in their own time.

They’ll learn to ask open-ended questions to encourage communication.

You’ll learn how to praise, support, and encourage teens as often as possible for the good choices they make.

You’ll learn how to listen before offering advice – then ask what help or strategies would be most useful for them.

Therapy can provide a variety of opportunities to role play or rehearse realistic social dilemmas and problems that encourage students to emerge from their comfort and ability zones.

Don’t wait.

Reach out and empower your child with the tools and support needed to overcome bullying before it’s too late.

Yes, it’s out there. Everywhere. And it never sleeps.

The good news? Neither will we.