Basic HTML Version
SPRING
2011
maskmatters.org
55
HOW TO
Spot a Bully
While there is no magic equation indicating that your child is
dealing with a bully—or being one—these common signals can
help you identify the problem and take action.
SIGNS YOUR CHILD IS BEING BULLIED
SIGNS YOUR CHILD IS BEING A BULLY
Comes home with damaged
or missing pieces of clothing,
books and other belongings.
Has unexplained cuts,
bruises and scratches.
Seems afraid of going to school,
including walking to and from school,
riding the school bus, or taking part
in organized clubs and activities.
Has lost interest in schoolwork or
suddenly begins to do poorly in school.
Appears sad, moody, teary or depressed
when he or she comes home.
Complains frequently of headaches,
stomachaches or loss of appetite.
Has trouble sleeping or has
frequent bad dreams.
Appears anxious and suffers
from low self-esteem.
Becomes aggressive and unreasonable.
Begins to bully other children,
especially siblings.
Taunts, intimidates, harasses
or excludes others, especially
weaker or younger children.
Spreads rumors verbally and
or electronically that hurt or
ruin another’s reputation.
Is physically aggressive (hits,
punches, kicks, slams, chokes).
Has positive views of violence.
Has the need to control
and dominate others.
Damages another child’s
property or clothing.
Is quick-tempered, impulsive
and easily frustrated.
Refuses to accept responsibility or denies
wrongdoing when evidence shows guilt.
Good at talking his or her
way out of situations.
Is insensitive to the feelings or needs
or others; a lack of empathy.