By David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network
Bullying is a problem that is present in day care centers, elementary and middle schools, and high schools and beyond. To better deal with bullying issues, it is often helpful to study and better understand the psychology and interactions involved with bullying. A University of Florida study indicated that girls were more likely to defend bullying victims than boys. Of course, this does not mean that girls do not bully. Some of the most brutal bullying incidents both psychological and physical have been committed by girls. As noted by University of Florida researchers, there has been a lack of recognition and study of kids who try to defend victims of bullying or stop the bullying incidents from taking place or continuing. The National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Centers estimate that over 5.7 million children are involved in bullying incidents as either the bully or the victim.
It is important to recognize and understand the importance of the defenders. In particular, it would be helpful to know:
What kind of children are more likely to defend against bullying?
What techniques or approaches are best utilized by defenders against bullying?
Why do some children step in to help while others do nothing?
What are the dangers involved in being a defender against bullying?
What are the fears against defenders of bullying?
Yes, bullying is a serious problem nationwide that needs to be better understood by children, parents, caregivers, teachers, administrators, day care workers, police officers, and others.
You can read more about the University of Florida study at Best Bet Against a Bully May be a Girl According to Researchers.