5 Signs Your Child Might Be Getting Bullied

Bullying is an issue that many children face, often silently. Bullying can begin as early as preschool and last well into high school. As a parent, it’s crucial to recognize the signs that your child might be experiencing bullying and take action. Here are five key indicators that your child may be getting bullied.

1. Changes in mood or behavior. One of the most common signs of bullying is a sudden change in your child’s behavior. If your child suddenly seems withdrawn, anxious, or unusually sad, this could be a red flag. Pay attention to their mood swings or any signs of depression. Start by having an open conversation with your child. Let them know that you’re there to listen without judgment. Avoid close-ended questions and ask questions like: “What kinds of things do you worry about with bullies?” “What challenges did you face today?” “What was the best thing and worst thing that happened to you today?” 

2. Unexplained injuries. Bruises, cuts, or scratches that your child tries to hide could be the result of physical bullying. These injuries may not always be the result of accidents so approach the subject gently and ask questions like: “Did something happen at school today?” “Can you tell me how you got that bruise?” If you do find out that your child is being physically bullied, be sure to make the school aware of it immediately so they can keep a closer eye on the situation. 

3. Avoiding social situations. If your child is suddenly avoiding school, skipping classes, or not wanting to participate in social activities that they used to enjoy, it could be because they’re trying to avoid a bully. Encourage them to talk about what’s bothering them. Offer reassurance and explore ways to make them feel safer at school. 

4. Poor academic performance. A sudden drop in grades or lack of interest in schoolwork can be another sign that something is wrong. Bullying can affect your child’s ability to focus, leading to the decline of academic performance. Offer extra support with their studies. But more importantly, reassure them that their well-being is more important than their grades. Work with their teachers to understand what’s happening at school. 

5. Changes in technology. Cyber bullying happens online and digitally. There is no physical harm involved, so it can be harder to spot than physical bullying. What’s worse, it can happen if your child doesn’t leave the house. A hateful text message or email, a demeaning video of them going viral, or degrading rumors spreading on social media are all types of cyber bullying. If your child suddenly stops using their phone or social media or seems distressed after being online, they may be experiencing cyber bullying. One of the best ways to prevent cyber bullying is to stop it before it starts. It’s important to monitor your child’s social media use and know what sites and apps your child uses. Be honest about it – let your child that you will be monitoring everything they do online, regardless of how much they resent it. 

If you suspect your child is being bullied, it’s important to act immediately to help them navigate through this difficult time. Remember, you are not alone. There are many resources available to support both you and your child. If you or your child would like to speak with a mental health professional, St. Luke’s Penn Foundation is here to help.