As children throughout Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area begin to head back to school over the next few weeks, parents and teachers will be faced with many important issues. Making transportation arrangements, purchasing school supplies and adjusting to new schedules makes this a very busy and exciting time of year.
Unfortunately, one issue that often goes overlooked during back-to-school preparation involves bullying, and making sure that our schools are safe and inclusive spaces for each and every Ontario student.
Speak with your children on the importance of being kind and respectful to other students and friends at all times. Discuss how school bullying has led to young children taking their own lives out of desperation and fear.
Bullying remains a very serious problem in Canada. Children and young people may face aggression, intimidation, and even violence, more than ever before. The rise of social media and online sharing sites designed to bring us closer together has in fact led to an entirely new form of intimidation known as cyber-bullying. Tragically, this means that many children are unable to escape their bullies even after they have left the school yard.
Dealing with physical or psychological violence and intimidation can have long-lasting and damaging effects for children. It is important for students and parents to know the facts, recognize the signs, and help prevent bullying in Ontario schools.
Many Canadians are unaware of just how wide-spread this problem has become, and even worse, many of those that have been effected may not know where to turn for help. Here are some troubling statistics about the high rate of bullying among Canadian students:
- Cyberbullying has become the most prevalent form of bullying among students.
- A 2010 research study of junior and high school students in Toronto revealed that 5% of students reported being bullied online.
- Bullying behavior peaks at different ages for girls and boys.
- Bullying behavior is at its worst in grade 9 for boys, when 47% of respondents reported experiencing bullying.
- 37% of girls in grades 6, 8 and 9 responded that they had been victims of bullying.
- More than 33% of Canadian teenagers reported that they have seen cyberbullying take place
- 1 in 5 teenagers say they have been victimized electronically by hurtful messages, posts or images.
Myths About Bullying
Many people believe that bullying is only a phase that kids will grow out of, or that teachers and administrators are well aware of potential bullying in schools. Tragically, many instances of bullying go unreported by victims due to feelings of shame or intimidation.
Bullying can also manifest itself into physical and emotional symptoms. Here are some signs to watch out for if you believe your child may be a victim of bullying:
- Increase in anxious, nervous or fearful behavior
- Depression, isolation, or loss of interest in favorite activities
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Frequent stomachaches or headaches
- Unwilling or afraid to go to school or other activities
- Unexplained physical marks such as scrapes, scratches or bruises
Talk to your child immediately if you believe that they may be bullying other children. If you notice an increase in aggressive behavior in your child, including bossiness, frustration or anger, it is possible that they may be taking their feelings out on their peers. Talk to your kids early and often about the importance of treating everyone with respect and dignity.
At Cariati Law, Ontario Personal Injury law firm, we firmly believe that our schools should be safe places for each and every student. We take pride in representing victims and families that have been harmed by bullying, harassment or any type of discrimination, either in school or the workplace.
Often, teachers, school administrators, or even other parents, may behave in a negligent manner and fail to prevent abuse that is occurring on their watch.
If a loved one has been seriously harmed by bullying or harassment and an authority figure was ineffective or negligent in preventing this harm, you may be entitled to compensation.
Cariati Law represents children and families who have suffered loss, severe emotional distress and physical harm from bullying. Call us today at 905-629-8040 today for a FREE, confidential and no-obligation consultation.
When you call, you will speak with an experienced Ontario Personal Injury lawyer who will speak with you for free and discuss your rights.
At Cariati Law, we handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. That means that you will never pay a lawyer’s fee unless we achieve a recovery for you.
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