Bullying is a hot topic in today’s world. Stats indicate as many as 1 in 3 kids say they have been bullied. Sadly, the majority of bullying happens in middle school.* Here are some important talking points to discuss with your tween daughter about bullying.
- Bullying is considered any behavior that is harmful to another person, whether physical, verbal, or social. Students don’t need to get “beat up” in order to be bullied. Someone who is repeatedly picked on, insulted, threatened, harassed, ostracized or made the butt of jokes and rumors may be considered a victim of bullying.
- Bullies often target kids who are perceived as different. As Christians, we must approach this fact in light of Bible truth. Every single person on this earth was created by a perfect and purposeful God. People with disabilities, unusual personalities, different tendencies or quirks are loved and accepted by God; therefore, we should accept them, too. We are called to love others, whether they are considered popular, pretty, “normal” or not.
- Adults are often not aware of bully situations. Bullies usually conduct their unkind behavior among peers or in secret, and not within sight of teachers or parents. For that reason, if you are being bullied or are aware of someone else being bullied, it’s important to speak up. Tell a trusted adult. Talk with your parents. Bullies gain power by convincing their victims to stay quiet. So don’t be afraid to call them out.
- Bullies can never define you. They don’t get to decide whether you are valuable or not. Only God gets that job. And do you know what He says about you? You are so very, very precious.“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:29–31)
As parents, we may not be able to prevent our children from being bullied. But we can teach them why it’s wise not to bully others, as well as how to cope with the reality of bullying by applying God’s truth their daily lives. Let’s work together to make an impact on our schools in Jesus’ name.
* Source: stopbullying.gov
