The Body Language of Bullying: How to Help Kids (and Adults) "Stand Up" for Themselves by Erica Hornthal


The Body Language of Bullying: How to Help Kids (and Adults) "Stand Up" for Themselves

Schools are back in session. Unfortunately, for some, that means back to being bullied. According to statistics on DoSomething.org:

  • More than 3.2 million students are victims of bullying each year.
  • Approximately 160,000 teens skip school every day because of bullying.
  • Seventeen percent of American students report being bullied two to three times a month or more within a school semester. 

This is not OK! Do you know what signs to look for in your child that might make them more susceptible to bullying? (By the way, this also applies to adults because bullying is not reserved for children or schools.) Here are the body language signs of bullying to look for:

  • Lack of eye contact.
  • Stooped posture.
  • Disappearing belly button (cannot see torso due to hunched posture).

If you notice these signs in your children or yourself, try these three movement suggestions:

  • Make appropriate eye contact.
  • Practice taking up space by stretching out.
  • Embody your confidence. Put confidence in your body and practice accessing it daily. 

Bullying occurs due to an imbalance of power. There are many ways that we can embrace our power through body language. Never underestimate your ability to change your mood through movement.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Girls Should Not Be Sexually Assaulted at School: Here's What Happened to Me and #WhyIDidntReport

Parents, Have Your Own No Tolerance Policy Against Bullying!

Bullying Advice for Parents: ​3 Tactics to Help Your Child Face Down Bullies

Cyber Bullying: 5 Signs That Your Child May Be a Victim!

Elisa Schmitz
Excellent tip, Erica Hornthal . You’re so right about the body language, and yet I’m sure most of us don’t think to look for that as a sign of bullying. The way we carry ourselves has a lot of impact and says so much. Thank you for this!
Cassiday
We all need to stand up to bullies even if we’re scared

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Bye, Felicia: 4 Things You Need to Give Up This New Year to Live a Better Life

Traditional Sweet Italian Easter Bread Recipe With Colored Eggs

Sweet Bunny Bread Recipe: A Fun Easter Craft That You Can Eat

“Become the Fire” Book Signing at The Book Stall: Building Community Has Never Been So Much Fun