The means and interactions for bullying are sometimes different thanks to technology with the introduction of cyberbullying, but the results remain the same, no matter the age of the children involved.

“Parents play a key role in the early corrective response to bullying behaviour,” Relationships Australia Practice Leader Jennifer Douglas said. “Express disapproval and intervene quickly and early to setting clear limits around bullying behaviour particularly in the home if it occurs between siblings or playmates.

“Seek ways to encourage the child to take responsibility for their behaviour including making amends such as a genuine apology or acts helping others. Separate the bad behaviour from the personhood of the child. Avoid punitive responses that may shame or humiliate the child. Then calmly explore with the child together why the bullying is happening.

Ms Douglas believes that bullies don’t always know how to control or regulate their emotions or feelings of vulnerability which can result in them lashing out or retaliating against others.

“Clearly bring into view what is the impact and harm of their behaviour. Growing empathy in children is a strong practice factor,” Ms Douglas said.

Ms Douglas also believes it is important for parents to reflect on their own attitudes and behaviours as children tend to mimic, identify and copy these behaviours in social situations.

It can sometimes be difficult for parents to identify and to know what to do if they suspect or know their child is the victim of bullying.

“Offer support and comfort but be aware not to rush in and rescue the victim child too prematurely but look for ways to empower the child, to find solutions and gain self-mastery over the bullying behaviour,” Ms Douglas said. 

“Seek to identify strong protective allies such as a teacher, friends and avoid situations that leave them isolated. Support a sense of self-esteem and strategies that grow their confidence to stand up to bullying behaviour.”

Ms Douglas has six signs to look out for: 

Loss of confidence and self-esteem, Losing friends, difficulty making friends and becoming isolated, being down and depressed or anxious or fearful escalating to becoming hyper vigilant, increased complaints and incidence of generalised illness, refusing to go to school and deterioration in school performance and becoming increasingly revengeful and aggressive.