Harassment at school: when does it start?

Bullying occurs when a child is exposed to bullying in a way that repeated to intentionally harmful behaviour by one or more other students, in a context of conflict. power imbalance (physical, psychological, social or digital).

Harassment can take many forms:

• Verbal harassment mockery, insults, humiliating nicknames, threats.

• Physical harassment hitting, shoving, theft or damage to personal belongings.

• Psychological harassment rumors, sidelining, intimidation, manipulation.

• Cyberbullying These include humiliating messages, dissemination of photos or videos, and repeated attacks on social networks or messaging systems.

Signs to alert parents

Every child reacts differently, but certain changes in behavior can be warning signs:

Sudden refusal to go to school, frequent stomachaches or headaches with no clear medical cause, irritability, unusual anger or withdrawal, loss of interest in previously appreciated activities, damaged or lost school supplies, unusual silence or, on the contrary, very negative self-talk.

When to worry When these signs take hold over time, intensify or impact the child's daily life and emotional well-being, it's important not to be left alone with your doubts.

How do you talk to your child about bullying?

Choose a calm, pressure-free moment. pdare to ask open-ended questions, without minimizing or dramatizing. accommodate the child's words without judgment. lo remind you that never responsible of what it undergoes, thereassure him that adults can help.

Even if the child doesn't speak immediately, the simple knowledge that dialogue is possible is already protective.

Useful resources and books for parents and children

Reading can be an excellent way to open a dialogue and put words to what the child is experiencing.

A reference we particularly recommend

• «Marcel Patouche» – Youth editions

  This accessible and sensitive book tackles the issue of bullying from a child's perspective. It enables us to recognize situations where children are shunned, mocked and hurt, while opening the way to talking and emotional understanding.

Other useful books and resources

• «Today I am...» by Mies van Hout - to help youngsters identify and express their emotions.

• «Harassment explained to children» - children's educational collection.

• «Harassed, Stalkers» by Catherine Dolto - to understand and act as a family.

  
  These tools are no substitute for professional guidance, but they can be an excellent starting point.

Psychological support: when and why seek help?

Accompaniment enables the child to put words to their experiences, restore self-esteem, regain a sense of security, develop coping resources.

It can also help parents adjust their posture and actions. 

FAQ - Bullying

My child denies being bullied, but I'm worried. What should I do?
Respect his rhythm. Continue to observe, open up opportunities for dialogue and don't hesitate to ask for professional advice.

Should the school be notified?
Yes, in many cases, collaboration with the establishment is necessary. The aim is to protect the child and stop the abuse.

Can bullying leave its mark on adulthood?
Yes, especially if left untreated. Early support considerably reduces the long-term impact.

Is therapy reserved for serious situations?
No. Consulting can also be a preventive approach, to help a child get through a difficult period before suffering sets in.

In conclusion

Bullying at school is never harmless. Being attentive, listening, being informed and seeking support are essential levers for protecting children and helping them regain their confidence and security. At Centre Pensées Barcelona, we support children and their families with a caring approach adapted to each situation.

If you have any doubts or questions, don't hesitate to ask for help: talking is already the first step.