Chapter 5

Myth #4

Kids who are small and physically weak are targeted for bullying

First published: 23 March 2020

Summary

Bullying typically involves less extreme aggression, but it operates using very similar psychological dynamics. Decades ago, researchers noted that small, weak boys were prime targets of bullying (a fact that every schoolchild also knew). However, bullying has largely shifted to a psychological phenomenon, and this change of weaponry has widened the bully's scope of possible targets. Use of digital technology quite simply produces its own vulnerability. Any user, no matter what their traditional social status, can theoretically find themselves unable to defend themselves online. The kids who were occasionally mean were more likely to agree with statements like “what I did wasn't ideal.” We need to promote the values that being kind to others are always appropriate. It is worthwhile to help children accomplish goals that can promote their self-confidence. The accomplishments that have the most impact on children's self-confidence are those that they themselves really value.

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