Childhood Bullying

During middle childhood children start to form peer groups and are more selective as to who they are friends with and who they socialize with. “Peer groups, collectives that generate unique values and standards for behavior and a social structure of leaders and followers” (Berk, 2012). A peer group can form due to similar age, sex, interests, and popularity. Peer groups can lead into stereotyping, which can also lead to bullying.

“Peer acceptance refers to likability—the extent to which a child is viewed by a group of age-mates, such as classmates, as a worthy social partner” (Berk, 2012). Children who have higher peer acceptance tend to have more friends and more positive social interactions. On the other hand, children who have low peer acceptance tend to be outcasts who have little to no friends. “Peer acceptance is a powerful predictor of current as well as later psychological adjustment” (Berk, 2012).

There are two types of rejected children, rejected-aggressive children and rejected-withdrawn children. “The largest subtype, rejected-aggressive children, show high rates of conflict, physical and relational aggression, and hyperactive, inattentive, and impulsive behavior” (Berk, 2012). These children tend to be rejected because they handle their issues through aggressive measures which most children will not understand or accept. “Rejected-withdrawn children are passive and socially awkward” (Berk, 2012). Both of these types of children are at high risk for bullying. Bullying tends to occur because the rejected children are looked at as easy targets.

Bullying can have lasting effects into adulthood for both the bully and the victim. Victims can suffer from problems such as “depression, loneliness, poor school performance, disruptive behavior, and school avoidance” (Berk, 2012). Bullies can also have poor school performance, possible criminal behavior, and in adulthood negative relationships with children and spouses.

There are...