Bullying is a major public health issue. Bullying can take many forms: emotional, physical, verbal, sexual, racist and cyber (spreading hurtful rumors and/or images across electronic platforms).
Kids who are victims of bullies may become depressed, anxious and develop low self-esteem. They will suddenly not want to go to school, where most bullying takes place.
A school bus ride, a trip to their locker, recess or lunchtime may become a fearful part of their daily school life. And sadly, there is little being done to address this issue.
What is bullying? Bullying occurs when a child is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions such as nonverbal harassment in the form of stares and glares, cruel teasing, malicious gossip, sexual harassment, ethnic slurs, unreasonable territorial bans, destruction of property, extortion, and serious physical assault, by one or more other students. A single instance of more serious harassment can be regarded as bullying under certain (unspecified) circumstances. Olweus (1993).
During National Bullying Prevention Week in October, Highmark Healthy High 5 began a special effort to give parents ways to prevent or stop bullying. Through media partnerships, additional content on this website and other efforts in communities across much of Pennsylvania, Highmark Healthy High 5 and our media partners will encourage parents to "Take the Time. Talk to Your Kids. Tackle Bullying." Learn more.
Highmark Healthy High 5 HALT! — A Bullying Prevention Program
Tips for Parents
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