James Barrett, PhD

Very good article on boston.com on what to do if your child is the bully.  There has been lots of talk and lots written here in Massachusetts lately on how to protect your children from being bullied.  However, just as important are tips for parents to help recognize bullying behavior in their children.  While this can be difficult for some parents, it is important to remember that children do not recognize the impact that their bullying can have on children, they  often lack the developmental perspective and empathy.  It is our job as adults to correct possible damaging behavior in their part and teach them why it is wrong. Parents also need to not dismiss possible bullying as “normal” or “part of growing up” and differentiate between teasing or a disagreement between peers and bullying.  Bullying occurs when a child regularly targets another with verbal taunts or physical assaults.  Instead of looking the other way, it is critical that parents help curb these behaviors in children and teach the importance of prosocial attitudes and actions.