The Importance of Bullying Prevention & Awareness Week

Bullying is a major problem for Canadian children and one we cannot ignore.

• Bullying rates in Canada are higher than 2/3 of Western countries
• 75% of people say they have been affected by bullying
• 80% of teens have seen racist or sexist content online
• 4/10 high school boys say they’ve experienced some form of physical assault
• 1/5 high school boys have been threatened with a weapon
• 1 in 7 youth report that they have been victimized online
• 22% of grade 9 girls and 12% of grade 9 boys experience cybervictimization

In addition to the harm caused during the initial incident, the damaging effects of bullying have been shown to negatively affect social relationships, well-being, and overall health.

• Children who are bullied can suffer stomach aches, headaches, social anxiety, loneliness, and isolation
• Children who are bullied can suffer from depression, anxiety and a higher risk of suicide
• Children who bully are more likely to become involved with criminal activity
• Children who bully, and those who are bullied, may be more likely to miss school, show little interest in their studies and suffer poor grades
• Children who bully may be more likely to use drugs and alcohol and engage in criminal activity

November 17-23, 2019 is Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, dedicated to helping promote safe schools and a positive learning environment. We’re encouraging students, school staff, and caregivers to learn more about bullying and its effects on student learning and well-being by posting resources on our blog all week. Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week represents an opportunity for educators and caregivers to discuss the importance of healthy relationships and fostering a positive school climate. If we change the way we view relationships, we can help stop bullying. We all have the power to keep kids safe.

Sources:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/school-violence-marketplace-1.5224865
https://www.prevnet.ca/bullying/dangers