Components Of Bullying

To better understand why bullying is still an issue, there are numerous components that are linked to bullying that need to be identified and explained. Two cultural beliefs and biases that may influence bullies are ethnicity and religion. Often times, society confuses ethnicity and race. One can have only belong to one race but can belong to multiple ethnic groups. Ethnic bullying occurs with “children who in some way do not fit in and deviate from the group norm” (Vervoort, M.H.M., Scholte, R.H.J. & Overbeek, G.) Religion tends to be a bullying issue if it is noticeable. For example, a Jewish male who wears a yamaka (a small hat showing Jewish faith) or a Muslim female who wears a hijab (a veil worn over the head and shoulders) may …show more content…
The majority of the children who are bullied are from lower income families. They may get made fun of for not having the latest fashions or not being able to participate in after school activities. Many high schoolers have to go home to watch younger siblings or perhaps go to work as their income helps support their family. Although less common, “youngsters from affluent backgrounds are being targeted because of their accents, their parents “flashy” houses and cars and their hobbies’ (Henry, J.). This tends to be an issue if the individuals are in the minority. There are many anti-bullying programs that target pre-school children in an effort to educate them before it becomes an issue. Elementary school age children who are taught at a young age about the types of bullying and the consequences (not only for themselves but for the intended target) are less apt to be a …show more content…
Individuals who are in a wheelchair or have a physical disability are less likely to be bullied than the student who talks with a lisp or gets pulled out of the class for extra help. “Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at increased risk of being left out and three times as likely to be bullied” (Stopbullying.gov). However, with Special Olympics promoting all their sporting events, these special athletes are now encouraged by their typical peers to succeed. The LGBTQ individuals have struggled with their own identity as well as dealing with bullies which could be a factor for many who have chosen to suppress their sexual orientation. While sexual harassment is most common form of bulling, physical and verbal abuse are also huge problems for a LGBTQ student. “A LGBTQ teen, who is not accepted, is eight times more likely to commit suicide than other teens” (Nobullying.com). Many Colleges and Universities are now advocating for equality of the LGBTQ student by promoting awareness and acceptance for everyone.
So, the question remains… Why IS bullying still an issue? With all the media coverage and early intervention bully programs in schools, there is certainly enough attention brought to the subject. Bullying is a social issue that will continue as long as there is jealousy and prejudice against the most vulnerable