How to Avoid Raising a Bully

Bullying not only includes physical aggression but can also take the form of name-calling or social ostracism and can occur in person or online. Although some people may think of getting bullied as a rite of passage, bullying can have serious consequences for both bullies and victims. Being a victim of bullying has been linked to depression, anxiety, decreased academic achievement, and in rare cases homicide or suicide. Bullies are more likely to use alcohol and drugs and become abusive adults. However, parents have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their children's behavior and help teach them not to bully others.

Instructions

    • 1

      Teach your child to be kind to others, starting at an early age. You can do this by treating your child and others in your family with kindness and respect. Additionally, let your child see you being kind to waiters, store clerks and others serving you, as well as to other who may have a lower economic or social standing than you. If your child is old enough, you might try involving them in a family community service project to give to others who are in need.

    • 2

      Teach your child about bullying and that it's not okay to treat others in a mean way -- or for others to treat them that way. Let them know that other children have feelings that are just as important as their own.

    • 3

      Stop your child immediately if you witness him bullying another child, including if this other child is a sibling. Have your child apologize to the other child, and give an age-appropriate consequence, such as timeout or the removal of a privilege.

    • 4

      Praise your child for positive behaviors such as sharing toys or helping you around the house. Positive reinforcements such as praise and other rewards that let your child know you appreciate his actions will reinforce the desired behavior, encouraging your child to continue behaving positively in the future.

    • 5

      Maintain strong communication with your child. Check in with your child daily about school and friends, and be available to listen to their concerns. This will help you know if they are at-risk of bullying or being bullied.

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