FACTS ABOUT BULLYING: -Compared to their peers, kids who are bullied are 5 times more likely to be depressed -Kids who bully often go on to commit crimes -Bullying is significantly more brutal than it was 10 to 15 years ago -Sometimes victims of bullying seek revenge on those who bullied them by using deadly force TIPS FOR PARENTS (to help child avoid becoming a bully or a target) -Assist your child in building empathy for others -Help to develop your child's appreciation for those with differences -Help your child learn to control his/her anger -Help your child to develop impulse control -Help your child develop his/her negotiation skills -Help your child learn how to recognize clues of the emotions others are feeling -Model appropriate behaviors -Use positive discipline strategies -Encourage your child to talk to you -Encourage your child to participate n school clubs or athletics -Praise and encourage your child -Teach your child to be assertive rather than aggressive or violent when confronted by a bully -Make a detailed record of any bullying incidents -Build a relationship with your child's teachers and administrators -Never blame your child if he/she has been a victim of bullying -Seek help from a mental health professional WARNING SIGNS your child may be a target of bullying: • Comes up with excuses for not going to school, such as headaches or stomachaches • Comes home with torn, damaged, or missing clothing, books, and belongings without a reasonable explanation • Has trouble sleeping and/or frequent nightmares • Has unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, and scratches • Fears walking to school or riding the bus • Has an unusual drop in grades • Experiences a loss of interest in schoolwork • Comes home appearing anxious, distressed, unhappy, depressed, or tearful • Withdraws from friends, family, and/or school activities • Acts out of character (significant change in mood), is frequently irritable or has sudden outbursts of anger Below are some characteristics of bullies and victims; however, please keep in mind that ANY child can be a bully or a victim. CHARACTERISTICS OF BULLIES Aggressive Impulsive Confident Tough Low tolerance for frustration Inclination to use violence more than other children CHARACTERISTICS OF VICTIMS Has few friends/tends to be a "loner" Perceived as being different