Bullying and Social Exclusion

Some schools bang the 'no bullying' drum but then act weakly or clumsily when cases occur.

As for social exclusion (felt or real) schools show little awareness of it.

A measured response like the following often brings good results:

A trusted teacher

gently probes the victim's feelings ("being so lonely kills me" etc.)
gathers a group of pupils including any bullies but not the victim
explains the victim’s suffering, possibly using a picture or piece of writing they've done
emphasizes their need to feel happy and safe
welcomes ideas like ‘I’ll walk to school with him’
meets everyone (including the victim) individually after about a week to check on progress.

This approach

confronts the pupils with the full extent of the victim's suffering
sets an example of caring (rather than using force like a bully)
brings out the best in the other pupils, which lowers the status of those who may be acting unkindly
frees victims from the fear of reprisals, since no one is punished.

Additional help

A bullied or excluded youngster may well be prone to

anxiety and depression, in which case please click here.

Therapy through self-expression

If your youngster shares their feelings through a picture,

poster or poem I'd be happy to see it. I'll always reply and

possibly offer a fee for featuring it on this website!

(Click here for more info.)

Artist Meghan Grayson produced this cry from the heart

when she was just 15. She's kindly allowed me to include

it here. I hope it inspires you!

To get in touch please use this form.

My postbag is currently swelling as seasonal stresses build up.

I always reply but prioritise families in East Anglia.

Tony D Triggs