According to Sad America most bullying occurs in school, although this can also happen on the internet and through cell phones. This is called cyberbullying. Rates of cyberbullying have nearly doubled over the past ten years from 18% in 2007 to 34% in 2016 as more kids have access to cell phones and social media.
Kids who are bullied can experience physical, mental, and educational problems. Physical problems such as headaches, muscle pain, upset stomach, changes in weight, and decreased ability to fight infections are associated with the stress of bullying. Mental health problems may also arise as a result of bullying.
At least 26% of Latino students were willing to report fear of being bullied. These students said they were afraid to go to school, felt depressed, and some were suicidal. Sebastien de la Cruz, a young mariachi who sang the national anthem at the NBA finals in June 2013, experienced cyberbullying with racially-motivated comments on social media after his appearance on national TV.
Bullying impacts not only the victims, but also the person who bullies others. Kids who bully are more likely to abuse alcohol or use drugs later in life, engage in early sexual behavior, and abuse future romantic partners as adults.
There are many warning signs that may indicate that someone is affected by bullying—either being bullied or bullying others. Recognizing the warning signs is an important first step in taking action against bullying. Not all children who are bullied or are bullying others ask for help.
It is important to talk with children who show signs of being bullied or bullying others. These warning signs can also point to other issues or problems, such as depression or substance abuse. Talking to the child can help identify the root of the problem.
Witnessing bullying is upsetting and affects the bystander, too. Bystanders have the potential to make a positive difference in a bullying situation by becoming an upstander. An upstander is someone who sees what happens and intervenes, interrupts, or speaks up to stop the bullying.