When I say the word “bullying,” what picture pops into your head?
When I think of bullying, I immediately imagine a small kid cowering in a corner, about to get beat up by a bigger one. And while it’s true that physical harassment and intimidation is one mode of bullying that takes place—especially among boys—there are other tactics to be aware of.
Girls in particular like to inflict emotional and psychological pain. They’ll exclude their victims from the lunchroom table or birthday parties. And while boys like to sling insults and verbal abuses, girls prefer the cold-shoulder method.
Bullying comes in various forms, so keep your eyes and ears open. It’s often a lot more subtle than you expect, but just as hurtful.
If you listen on a mobile phone or tablet, please download our Parenting Today’s Teens app available for Apple or Android. If you listen on a desktop or laptop computer, press the “play” button above to enjoy daily parenting advice.