Bullying 101: Get the Facts

Boys are often physically aggressive. They're more likely to bully and be bullied. Girls often bully indirectly, through gossiping with peer groups.

Generally, one out of three children are bullied at school, in the neighborhood, or online—and one out of three children bully others.

Kids who are bullied are at risk for anxiety, low self-esteem and even substance abuse. Bullies are more likely to fight, steal and become criminals.

A host of factors—including uninvolved parents, physical discipline, positive views of violence, and desire for social power—are reasons for bullying.

Bullying isn't anything new—often victims keep quiet, bystanders do nothing, and adults don't intervene, and the problem isn't dealt with effectively.

Ending bullying means putting a stop to playground power struggles and expected peer dynamics. Social aggression is learned—and it can be changed.

Pay attention to symptoms that indicate your child's being bullied, including depression, academic issues, lost belongings and sleep cycle changes.

If you suspect your kid's a bully, look for these warning signs: lack of empathy, disobedience, a positive attitude about violence and impulsivity.

Some kids bully because they've been a victim in the past. They struggle with emotional outbursts, an inability to control anger, and peer rejection.

If your kid's a bully, explain that is unacceptable. Brainstorm positive social activities, see a counselor and be sure to supervise his interactions.

Witnesses can help end bullying by telling the aggressor to stop, supporting the victim, walking away or reporting the bully to a trusted adult.

If you see bullying, stand between the victim and bully, reiterate anti-bullying rules, and notify the parents. Don't tell them to just "work it out."

While bullies often have an inflated self-view that helps them justify bad behavior, victims are more likely than their peers to have low self-esteem.

Kids who are bullied report depression and low self-esteem, are likely to skip school, complain of headaches and are susceptible to substance abuse.

Unsurprisingly, aggressive kids often grow up to be aggressive adults—60 percent of childhood bullies have a criminal record by the time they're 24.

If you think your child's been victimized, then you should listen, find out which anti-bullying methods he's tried, and contact the school.

You can prevent bullying: talk to your kid a lot, spend time at school, lead by example, make anti-bullying rules at home and look for warning signs.

Your child's been bullied—it's time to get more information. Ask questions, validate his feelings and discuss ways he can avoid bullies at school.

Advocate for anti-bullying programs that educate kids, have clear rules, focus on peer relations, put adults in hot spots and require a group effort.