With an angry, trembling voice, the mother exclaimed: “This wasn’t the first call from the school. It happened before, and now it’s the second time this month.”
She found herself listening to the school principal saying: “Your daughter has assaulted one of her male classmates again. We tried speaking to her, but she insists it was just a joke.”
The mother fell silent—caught between confusion and worry—before asking herself:
How did my sweet little girl, the child who once feared the dark, become someone who bullies others and calls it a game?
According to educational psychologist Dr. Manal Al-Taweel, this concern is becoming increasingly common among mothers today, especially in a world where children’s psychological and social environments are changing faster than ever.
What Is Bullying in Children?
Bullying is not just a simple fight or a brief moment of aggression.
It is a repeated pattern of behavior meant to harm others physically or emotionally.
It can appear as:
Global statistics show that one in three students has been bullied by peers—at school or online—proving that bullying is not an isolated issue but a serious social and educational challenge requiring awareness and cooperation between families and schools.
A Message to Mothers
Every mother dreams of raising a kind, well-adjusted child. But parenting is not a straight path.
When a child misbehaves, it does not mean the mother failed—it may signal a new stage for growth and understanding.
Remember:
Behind every difficult behavior lies an unexpressed emotion.
Your role is not just correcting mistakes, but teaching your daughter to see the world with empathy, not power.
So when the school calls, don’t see it as an accusation. See it as a chance—to reach your child’s heart and teach her that kindness is not weakness, and true courage lies in apologizing, not controlling others.
The Causes of Bullying Are Deeper Than We Think
1. Emotional Disconnection at Home
Children who grow up in households filled with tension, verbal conflict, or physical aggression are 70% more likely to display aggression.
Without a healthy model for expressing anger, they learn that power and dominance solve problems.
2. A Need for Attention or Control
Some children bully to be noticed, or to cover an inner sense of insecurity.
Bullying becomes a temporary way to feel powerful—especially if the child has low self-esteem or has experienced rejection.
3. Digital Influence
Screens have normalized harsh humor and aggressive behavior.
TV shows, games, and online videos often portray bullying as funny or exciting, shaping the child’s expectations of “normal behavior.”
4. Strict or Neglectful Parenting
Studies show that children exposed to extremely harsh or inconsistent parenting are three times more likely to become bullies.
Balanced parenting—firm but loving—helps children regulate themselves and respect others.
Practical Steps to Handle the Situation Without Guilt
1. Don’t Attack Your Child Immediately
Avoid harsh statements like “You’re embarrassing us!”
Sit calmly with her and listen to her version of the story.
Emotional safety is the first step toward change.
2. Separate the Behavior from the Person
Say: “What you did was wrong, but I know you can be better.”
This helps her take responsibility without feeling worthless.
3. Treat the School as a Partner, Not an Enemy
Ask for details, observe patterns, and explore possible triggers like jealousy or social pressure.
Schools can be powerful allies in correcting behavior.
4. Teach Empathy
Encourage her to imagine how the other child felt.
Use stories and films that highlight emotions.
Programs focusing on emotional intelligence have reduced bullying by 42% in schools that implemented them.
Daily Parenting Practices at Home
Be a Model in Handling Anger
Children imitate what they see.
When you’re upset, express irritation calmly instead of shouting.
Set Clear and Consistent Rules
Agree on expected behavior at home and school.
Explain consequences—not as punishment, but as responsibility.
Praise Positive Change
When she shows kindness or cooperation, acknowledge it.
Positive reinforcement is more powerful than punishment.
Reduce Violent or Mocking Media Content
Monitor what she watches and replace negative content with educational or compassionate stories.
When to Seek a Child Psychologist
Seek help if:
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Bullying continues despite efforts from home and school
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Your daughter shows ongoing aggression or emotional withdrawal
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She doesn’t feel guilty or struggles to understand others’ feelings
A specialist can explore deeper reasons—such as anxiety, jealousy, or low self-esteem—and design a targeted plan that includes both family and school.
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