askST: How can I help my child if he is targeted by a bully or is a bully?

Check out the article by The Straits Times here: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/ask-st-how-can-i-help-my-child-if-he-is-targeted-by-a-bully-or-is-a-bully

---

This article addresses how parents can handle bullying - whether their child is the victim or the bully.

What counts as bullying

Bullying involves repeated and intentional harm toward someone weaker or more vulnerable, through physical aggression, name-calling, exclusion, spreading rumours, or cyberbullying. Both boys and girls can be bullies - girls are more likely to use social manipulation or exclusion rather than physical violence.

The role of bystanders

Most bullying incidents have witnesses who do nothing due to the bystander effect, where everyone assumes someone else will act. Empowering bystanders is key to stopping bullying - when peers intervene, bullies often stop. Schools and parents must foster an environment where students know it’s right to act and support victims.

Key takeaway

Bullying is a complex issue that affects both victims, perpetrators and, by extension, the family. The most effective solutions combine open communication, empathy building, and social education.