Lajoie says the student who prompted the project is now happily adjusted and active in school activities. The kids are responding to him and he belongs. They're not isolating him. Boy bullies are frequently physically aggressive, while girl bullies tend to be subtler, suing alienation, put-downs and intimidation. However, physical aggression by girl bullies is on the rise.
Bullies turn into anti-social adults likely to commit crimes, batter spouses and abuse children.
Victims are typically insecure, isolated children from overprotective families. Seeking out a friend to stick with can be a strong protective, particularly for boys. Confidence is the best weapon against a bully, fighting back the worst. Help children devise clever comebacks, and get involved with anti-bullying efforts in schools. Instill empathy for the bullying victims.