Counsellor/Wellbeing

Bullying is an ongoing or repeated misuse of power in relationships, with the

intention to cause deliberate psychological harm. Bullying behaviours can be verbal,

physical or social. It can happen in person or online, via various digital platforms and

devices and it can be obvious or hidden. Bullying in any form or for any reason can

have immediate, medium and long-term effects on those involved, including

bystanders.

Despite the efforts made to reduce bullying behaviours, the research tells us that one

in four students still report being bullied every few weeks. However, not all negative

behaviour should be considered bullying. The key difference is that bullying does not

stop on its own. It’s important young people learn how to identify behaviours that are

rude, behaviours that are mean, and behaviours that are related to bullying. 

Often the reasons for bullying can be complex. Some young people do it to get

approval from others, some do it to regain control, whilst others may do it because it

makes them feel safe. Supporting young people as they work through their emotions

will help them unpack the motivation and reason behind the behaviour. 

In this edition of SchoolTV, caregivers can better understand why some young

people engage in bullying behaviours and what to do to support a child experiencing

it.

Here is the link to the Bullying edition of SchoolTV

With the advent of the internet, smart phones and tablets, there is now a whole new

digital dimension added to traditional schoolyard bullying. There was once a time

when bullying victims were given some respite outside of school hours, but sadly

these days, online bullying can occur 24/7. In today’s world, teaching your child

about online and cyber safety, is as important as learning to swim or cross the road!

Cyberbullying can be identified as being the repeated behaviour by an aggressor

with the intent to harm or embarrass. Technology enables these aggressors to share

information widely and quickly, making this form of bullying extremely dangerous and

harmful. However, the answer is not to shun the internet nor social media. Instead,

parents are encouraged to embrace it and instil a family internet policy to protect

their children without limiting the freedom to learn, explore and communicate online.

In this edition of SchoolTV, parents are provided with useful guidelines and advice on

how to minimise the risks. Children have the right to feel safe, regardless of whether

it is in the schoolyard or online.

Here is the link to the Cyberbullying edition of SchoolTV

https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/cyber-bullying

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in both of these editions

of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about

your child, please contact the Pastoral Leader, College Counsellor for further

information or seek medical or professional help.

Karen Surian 

College/School Counsellor