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Bullying Essay

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Bullying is a widespread problem that negatively affects both the physical and mental wellbeing of children of all ages. The clinician can play a very important role in helping prevent bullying and also treating children who are victims. It can be difficult to know if a child is being bullied or is bullying others, so it is important for practitioners to be aware of the clinical manifestations and ask the right questions. Bullying is defined as an “act of repeated aggressive behavior performed to intentionally hurt another person, physically or mentally (Kim, 2013).” There are many forms of bullying, including physical, verbal, and social (Silva, 2013). A more recent form has arisen with the invention of the internet: cyberbullying. …show more content…

Practitioners should also be aware of signs that a child may be a bully, such as aggression, anger, defiance, and impulsivity. Children who have greater physical strength than their peers or are friends with others who demonstrate similar aggressive tendencies are more likely to pick on smaller or less aggressive classmates (Kim, 2013). Children who are bullying others may also present with similar signs and symptoms as those who are being bullied because many bullies have also been victims, either at home or at school. Bullies may have conduct disorders, depression, be abused at home, or live in violent communities; practitioners should be aware of these things and investigate if these children are involved in bullying. It is important for clinicians to directly ask children if they have ever been bullied or if they have ever bullied anyone else (Korioth, 2016). Another good screening question from the UCLA PTSD Index that can be asked is “Has anything ever happened to you that was really scary, dangerous or violent (PTSD, 2017)?” Practitioners should also encourage parents to ask their children these questions at home. Many factors can lead to a child becoming a bully. The desire to be in control, emotional distress, mental illness, and a past history of being bullied all can play a role (Turkel, 2007). According to the American Academy of

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