When Your Child is Bullied: The Five Steps That Could Save Your Child

With Australian students among the most bullied in the world and recent tragedies highlighting the devastating consequences, discover the research-backed five-step response plan that empowers children and gives parents practical tools to address bullying before it escalates.

Key Points:

• 70% of Australian kids aged 12-13 experience bullying

• Australia leads Western nations in bullying incidents

• Clear definition of what constitutes actual bullying

• Status and power dynamics drive bullying behaviour.

• Five-step response plan for parents

Quote of the Episode: "Trauma is not a result of the events that happen to you. It's a result of how you process those events."

Key Insights:

• Difference between conflict and true bullying

• Four types of bullying (physical, verbal, social, cyber)

• High-status kids are more likely to bully than low-status

• Importance of documentation and proper reporting

• Role of mindset in managing bullying impact

Resources Mentioned:

• Kids Helpline

• Parent Line

• Lifeline (13 11 14)

• Beyond Blue

• Professor Michael Bernard's research

Action Steps for Parents:

1. Listen and Validate:

   • Believe your child's experience

   • Show emotional support

   • Avoid dismissing their feelings

   • Make time to really hear them

2. Document Everything:

   • Keep written records

   • Take screenshots

   • Save evidence appropriately

   • Note dates and details

3. Involve Authorities:

   • Report to school/organisation

   • Work collaboratively with staff

   • Follow up on actions taken

   • Maintain communication

4. Build Coping Skills:

   • Develop positive mindset strategies

   • Practice perspective-taking

   • Strengthen self-worth

   • Minimise social media exposure

5. Seek Professional Help:

   • Recognise when expert help is needed

   • Access support services

   • Consider counselling options

   • Use available helplines