What are bullying, harassment, discrimination and violence?
Staff
Q. What are the signs of students being bullied or harassed?
A. There are a few signs:
- fear of going to school
- lack of friends
- missing belongings
- torn clothing
- increased fearfulness and anxiety.
In addition, look for changes in behaviour.
- Bullied students won't join in group activities.
- A student or group of students acts embarrassed about comments made in
class at which another group laughs, but the teacher and other students
don't understand.
- Their standard of work declines.
- The student becomes unusually aggressive, and doesn't appear to be able to behave assertively.
Q. What is the difference between bullying and teasing?
A. Ask yourself some questions. Is this just good enjoyable fun for both parties involved? Or is it fun for one side, but meant to hurt the other?
Teasing is playful behaviour, often directed at a family member or close friend, and where there is ongoing care and love. Teasing is not meant to hurt. For example, teasing could involve nicknames or funny faces that are used in a way that's great fun for both people. But if the behaviour is designed to hurt or one person feels very uncomfortable, it's more likely to be bullying or harassment, and this is not OK. OK?
Q. Is it possible for someone to bully – and also be bullied?
A. Yes. Depending on the situation, we all have the capacity to bully and harass and, through our lives, most of us will experience being victimised by someone else. The issues are much more than just the 'problem' of a few people.
Q. As a teacher, how can I recognise if I am bullying in my own practice?
A. A good way to know whether others see any of your practices as bullying is to receive open and honest feedback from students, parents and other staff members. To do this, you need to provide the space and the place for these discussions to take place. Being reflective in your practice is also really important. For example, ask yourself whether you are using fear, intimidation, sarcasm or putdowns in your dealings with others.
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