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Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : February 9, 2019 3:18 PM IST
Social bullying should be tackled effectively. © Shutterstock
Social Bullying is a common form of bullying which is intended to harm others social standings and relationships, through deliberate manipulation. Unlike physical bullying which is obvious, relational bullying is masked and can continue for a long time without being noticed. Social bullying is prevalent to a great extent amongst adolescents and youth. It can take place anywhere, in schools, colleges and workplaces.
"This sort of bullying is often harder to recognize and is often carried out behind the back of the person who is being bullied. Sometimes, the target may know the reason for being bullied but other times, they remain unaware. It may include: lying, fake rumours and spreading gossip or encouraging others to turn against someone; leaving someone out constantly and encouraging others to do the same, negative comments on posts and images, using humiliating nicknames and continuing when asked to stop which ultimately leads to damaging someone s social reputation or social acceptance. It can be difficult for someone going through this to accept when the line is crossed from being a prank to persistent bullying," explains Bhakti Thakkar Bauva, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, Navi Mumbai.
The consequences
The negative consequences of social bullying are extensive; victims often suffer from depression, Social Isolation, Anxiety, low self-esteem, anger or aggression.
These could be the reasons for bullying
"Some of the reasons why someone could become a bully can be - attention seeking behaviour - doesn t matter if it is positive or negative. Need for them to think they can get what they want, to impress others and think they are gaining respect and popularity amongst their peers. Or to punish people they are jealous or envious of. Hence, whatever the reasons may be, it does not give anyone the right to make others feel low or bully others to make themselves feel better," says Bauva.
Tips to tackle it
It is imperative that bullying of any type is taken seriously and effective measures are taken to prevent it. There should also be consequences stated for the people who bully. Furthermore, effective school-based bullying prevention strategies should be implemented which include a social-ecological, whole-school approach that engages students, families, and all the school staff.
Providing support to victims
"People who have been bullied require a systematic assessment of the potential mental, health and social effects of bullying. It is also important to reassure the victim that the bully will not be tolerated; that bullying behaviour is not deserved, and measures will be taken to ensure their safety. Support should be provided to ensure effective coping and to prevent the development of behavioural or mental health concerns. This support can be provided by the school and college counsellor, or the individual can be referred to as an expert to seek help," explains Bauva.
Changing parenting styles for the bullies and victims
"Parents need to spend some time talking to their children about their day and create a nurturing atmosphere of acceptance and comfort, where the child feels that he or she matters and is heard. Also, parents should try and be the best role models they can be, for their children to emulate," says Bauva.
