Is there anything a parent can do about relational bullying?

Relational bullying or relational aggression is the intention to harm others through deliberate manipulation of their social standing and relationships. For example: spreading rumors about someone so others won't like them or asking someone to join their group and then at the last minute excluding them. If you are on good terms with the parent of the child doing the bullying is it ok to talk to that parent about it?

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BananaBrown · 41-45, F

I feel the best bet would be for the child being bullied to learn how to recognize this kind of behavior in his/her peers, and how to separate themselves from it. Learn the signs, know your own value, and feel confident walking away from people that act in such a manner. When you have good self esteem and self respect, and when you learn to set healthy boundaries, it’s easier respond in an appropriate way. Unfortunately we can’t change other people, but we can decide how we react to them.

morrgin · F

@BananaBrown I fully agree but how do you get a child to understand and follow that when they are going through middle school?

BananaBrown · 41-45, F

@morrgin I’m a big believer that everyone should be in talk therapy. Kids included. It’s a huge deal for kids to be able to talk about their issues with a third party. Sometimes it’s easier for them to talk to a total stranger than it is parents or teachers. It might not solve all of their problems, but it can help to have a new way to think about things.

RedBaron · M

@BananaBrown Not everyone can afford therapy.

BananaBrown · 41-45, F

@RedBaron That’s true. Sadly

chrisCA · M

@RedBaron The money would be better spent on boxing lessons.