Even to this day, bullying is still a big problem, especially in school. Bullying not only causes students to lose interest in school, but to also causes serious mental health problems. This is why parents need to know the signs of bullying in teenagers as this helps them take steps to help out their child.
Signs of Bullying in Teenagers
Bullying is a serious concern that parents should know about. And while some cases of bullying are reported, it is believed that most cases remain underreported by students. So it’s important for parents to be mindful of their child’s behavior, and do something if they feel their child is being bullied.
Here are some of the common signs of bullying:
Mood changes
Sudden mood changes are one of the most easily noticeable signs of bullying. You might notice that your teen suddenly becomes more irritable. Your child could also seem as if they’re happy one day, and then angry or frustrated the next.
The best thing to do about it would be to talk to your child about it. Don’t confront them right away, because it’s not always easy to talk about bullying to a parent. However, let them know that you are there for them, and you’re available if they need someone to talk to.
Anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression are also possible signs of bullying. It’s not uncommon for bullied teens to suffer from depression, especially if they’re constantly being pressured by a bully or bullies in school.
In some cases, teens have even committed suicide as a result of bullying. So it’s important for parents to take it seriously, since bullying can have a significant effect on mental health.
Not wanting to go to school
Bullying can also cause teens to resist going to school. Some might make excuses, such as feeling sick, or they might be skipping school behind your back.
At first, it’s understandable that you might feel angry or disappointed if your child does this. However, it is important to understand things from their perspective.
Maybe they are trying to avoid certain people at school, or they don’t feel comfortable or safe in school.
Having unexplained injuries
One of the alarming signs of bullying in teenagers is seeing unexplained wounds or injuries.
Some teens try to hide these injuries from their parents. If they’re getting beat up at school, or someone physically hurt them, you might notice your child limping, or acting as if they’re trying to hide something from you.
Try to avoid a direct confrontation if you feel that your child might be hurt because of a bully. Make your child feel comfortable, and at ease, and they will eventually open up to you and ask for your help.
It’s important to let them know that you are someone that they can depend on whenever they’re in trouble.
Significant changes in sleeping or eating patterns
It’s not uncommon for teenagers to start having some changes in their eating and sleeping patterns. After all, puberty is a period of rapid growth and change, and a teen’s body changes significantly during this time.
However, if it seems that your child is not sleeping at all, or isn’t even eating their favorite foods, it might be time to talk to them about it. It could affect your child’s growth and development, and lead to even more serious health problems if not dealt with.
Withdrawn behaviors
It’s also common for teens to want to be more independent. This means that some teens might be more secretive about the things they do, or they might want to create some space between them and their parents. This is totally normal behavior.
But if you and your child used to be very close, and now they’re not telling you anything at all, they might have a serious problem.
They could be afraid to tell you, or they’re shy about letting you know that they’re being bullied. Whatever the reason, it is important to try and keep communication lines open between your child.
This can also manifest as withdrawn behavior, and it might feel that they’re constantly trying to hide something from you.
If the opportunity presents itself, you can ask them if something’s bothering them, or if they want to talk to you about something.
Suddenly asking for more money
Lastly, one sign of bullying is that your child suddenly asks for more money.
It’s not uncommon for teens to ask for a raise in their allowance, or ask for extra money for buying things or going out with friends. But if you notice that they’re asking for a lot of money frequently, then something might be wrong. Their bully could be harassing them for money.
If this is happening to your child, be sure to talk to them about it. Asking for a lot of money is a serious thing, and if you feel that your child might be doing this because they are being bullied, then it’s very important for you to do something about it.
Key Takeaways
Bullying in adolescence can have a lasting impact on a person’s mental health. So it’s best to intervene as early and as effectively as possible to ensure your child’s long-term wellbeing.
Parents can collaborate with the school, such as with teachers or guidance counselors to help address the problem. An intervention might also be a good idea, if it is necessary.
Lastly, parents should not hesitate to seek psychological help for their child so that they can cope with their problems.
Learn more about parenting adolescents, here.
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