By Floyd Godfrey, PhD

Bullying remains a pervasive issue in today's society, affecting countless children both in schools and online. Recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicates that in the 2021–22 school year, approximately 19% of students aged 12–18 reported being bullied during school. Among these students, 22% experienced bullying online or via text messages (NCES, 2024).

Dr. James Dobson, in his book Bringing Up Boys, emphasizes the critical role parents play in safeguarding their children from such harmful environments. He asserts, " I would not permit my child to stay in an abusive environment if I perceived it as more than the usual bickering between kids. If peers begin to gang up on your youngster and are ripping into his heart day after day, I would get him out of there. I would find a magnet school, or a Christian school, or I would even move to another city if necessary" (Dobson, 2001, p. 41). This perspective underscores the importance of proactive parental intervention when a child's well-being is at stake.

The rise of cyberbullying has added a new dimension to this challenge. A 2024 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that 15% of adolescents have experienced cyberbullying, with rates closely aligned between boys (15%) and girls (16%) (WHO, 2024). This represents an increase from 2018, highlighting the growing prevalence of online harassment among youth.

Dr. Dobson further advises, "Whatever the approach taken, you must protect the spirit of your child" (Dobson, 2001, p. 41). This guidance is particularly pertinent in the digital age, where the boundaries between school and home can blur due to technology. Parents are encouraged to maintain open lines of communication with their children, monitor their online activities, and collaborate with educators to create a supportive environment both in and out of school.

In conclusion, addressing bullying requires a multifaceted approach that includes vigilant parental involvement, supportive educational settings, and awareness of the evolving nature of cyberbullying. By prioritizing the emotional and psychological well-being of our children, we can help them navigate these challenges and foster resilience.

References

Dobson, J. (2001). Bringing up boys: Practical advice and encouragement for those shaping the next generation of men. Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

National Center for Education Statistics. (2024). Student bullying. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/pdf/2024/a10_508c.pdf

World Health Organization. (2024, March 27). One in six school-aged children experiences cyberbullying, finds new WHO Europe study. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/27-03-2024-one-in-six-school-aged-children-experiences-cyberbullying--finds-new-who-europe-study