700,000. This is the number of students who are harassed at school each year [1]. Faced with this alarming situation, parents are often helpless and powerless. However, their role is essential in the fight against this violence. Here are some ways to help your child get out of this torment.
Identify Harassment
In general, a child who is a victim of bullying does not dare to talk about it out of shame, modesty or fear of retaliation. If this is the case, know that certain signs don’t cheat. lower results, withdrawal, absenteeismschool sickness, insomnia, anxiety, eating and/or mood disorders, loss of attention, unusual use of the phone (higher than before… If you notice these changes in behavior or other even trivial changes, this should alert you, if this is the case , do not wait to open the dialog box.
Open dialog box
Opening the dialogue is in a sense a revelation to a child who is a victim of bullying. That’s why it’s important to find the right time to talk about it (in the evening, before going to sleep for example). Next, a trust framework must be installed. To do this, let him know that his behavior has changed and that you are concerned. Then make assumptions about his current discomfort and give personal examples, without saying the word “harassment.” This powerful term should only be used if you think your child is ready to open up.
Notify the school
In theory, the school, college or high school has a duty to warn the parents of harassed children. If not, it’s probably because he isn’t aware. The first thing to do, therefore, is to warn the establishment to form a protective community of professionals and personnel for the victim. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, numerous measures can be taken. Usually the school will confront the children to understand what is happening and then act better. If the bullying continues, don’t hesitate to change schools.
warn the police
If the school does not intervene or if the bullying continues and becomes increasingly worrying, legal action must be taken. Bring as much evidence as possible for this (take screenshots of any violent messages or threats your child receives on their smartphone/computer).
As a reminder, on December 1, 2021, the bill on bullying at school was approved by the National Assembly. It states that a stalker can face a prison sentence of up to three years and a fine of 45,000 euros, depending on the seriousness of the case and the age of the perpetrator. [1]
To continue, we invite you to discover our interview with Florence Millot, psychologist specialized in children and adolescents.