From the Left
Bullying is a serious problem concerning children which has only recently been addressed by the government. Bullying often results in severe emotional and psychological problems in otherwise healthy people who were bullied as children. Bullying can even result in death of the victim in extreme cases, either by suicide or as a direct result of the bullying. I think the government needs to do much more to prevent and stop bullying.
Although there is currently no legal definition of bullying, it commonly refers to various forms of aggressive behavior or social rejection, usually by bigger or tougher kids in order to establish dominance over their victims. Bullying needs to be confronted by adults. This means first listening to the victim if he or she comes forward, which is often all the victim needs. Other strategies for dealing with bullying include confronting the parents of the victim and the bully, following up with the teachers if necessary, monitoring the behavior of the bully and the safety of the victim, and teaching the victim how to stand up to bullies and defend themselves. |
From the Right
Bullying is occurring in increasingly large numbers across the country. In the most severe cases children and teens are injured due to actions that fall under the category of bullying. There have even been hate-crime acts classified under bullying. With many children suffering silently, it is important that the issue of bullying is addressed in some way by the government. However, the manner in which it is addressed should be clear and concise.
There have already been many anti-bullying laws running through the government. However, most of them are stopped quickly due to the manner in which they are worded. The truth is that many law makers are choosing to use anti-bullying bills as protective measures for homosexuals. An anti-bullying bill should be one that protects all students. It should not single out a particular group of students or individuals with particular thoughts, beliefs, or actions.
It is clear that order and discipline should be upheld in the school systems, both private and public. However, it should be done in the school system itself. Disciplinary actions should be taken against those who engage in bullying behavior. Teachers should be trained to recognize the signs of bullying. Often the signs are “silent” and teachers may not see the signs clearly. However, as the lines of communication are opened more between students and teachers, they will be able to be more informed of the behaviors of their students. Since teachers and school officials are in charge of schools, they should develop plans of actions to stop bullying. In addition, they should guarantee their plans of action are upheld and enforced. |
