What is Bullying and Harassment?
What is Bullying and Harassment?
Bullying and harassment refer to unwanted aggressive behavior that involves a power imbalance and is repeated over time. It is a significant issue for individuals across various demographics, particularly those with neurodiverse conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Down Syndrome. Bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal, relational/social, damage to personal property, and cyberbullying.
- Physical bullying: Involves hitting, punching, kicking, or other physical harm.
- Verbal bullying: Includes name-calling, insults, and threats.
- Relational/social bullying: Involves damaging someone's social reputation or relationships.
- Damage to personal property: Includes damaging or stealing someone's belongings.
- Cyberbullying: Involves using digital communication tools to bully others.
How Does Bullying and Harassment Affect Neurodiverse Individuals?
Neurodiverse individuals often face unique challenges that can make them more vulnerable to bullying and harassment in various settings, including schools and workplaces. For instance, over 60% of children and young adults with autism experience bullying, and those with ADHD are at an elevated risk of being involved in bullying. In the workplace, individuals with dyslexia can face discrimination and harassment. Individuals with Down Syndrome can also be vulnerable to bullying due to differences in cognitive and physical abilities.
- Autism: Children and young adults with autism are particularly susceptible to bullying, with evidence showing that over 60% experience bullying.
- ADHD: Children with ADHD are at an elevated risk of being involved in bullying, either as aggressors or as victims, compared to their peers.
- Dyslexia: In the workplace, individuals with dyslexia can face discrimination and harassment.
- Down Syndrome: Individuals with Down Syndrome can also be vulnerable to bullying due to differences in cognitive and physical abilities.
What Legal Protections and Support Are Available for Victims of Bullying and Harassment?
There are legal rights for parents and individuals when a child with a disability is the target of bullying or disability harassment. Federally-funded schools in the United States have an obligation to resolve harassment based on disability, and students with a 504 plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP) qualify for these protections. Additionally, individuals and employers can seek advice from organizations such as The Dyslexia Association, The British Dyslexia Association, and Dyslexia Action regarding dyslexia in the workplace.
What is the Impact of Bullying and Harassment in School and Online Contexts?
Bullying and harassment are significant issues in both school and online settings, affecting individuals' well-being and development. Schools are required to have policies prohibiting harassment, intimidation, and bullying. In the digital age, cyberbullying and online harassment are facilitated by technology, with behaviors such as belittling, intimidating, or shaming individuals through various online platforms.
How Can Diversity and Inclusion Training Help Combat Bullying and Harassment?
To combat bullying and harassment, diversity and inclusion training programs are available. These programs aim to educate staff and management about recognizing, preventing, and responding to such behaviors in the workplace, which can also be applicable to school settings. They often include interactive content and scenarios to help learners apply concepts to their daily routines.
What Role Do Cultural Influences Play in Bullying and Harassment?
Cultural influences play a role in the prevalence and impact of bullying, with some reports suggesting that the effects of bullying can exceed those experienced by victims of sexual harassment. Interventions need to be culturally sensitive and consider the unique experiences of racial and ethnic minorities.
What Steps Can Be Taken When Dealing with Bullying and Harassment?
Victims of bullying and harassment, or those who witness such behaviors, are encouraged to report incidents to appropriate authorities, such as school administrators or designated liaisons. Websites like StopBullying.gov provide resources for getting help and understanding the steps to take when dealing with bullying. Addressing bullying and harassment requires a comprehensive approach that includes policy enforcement, education and training, cultural sensitivity, and support systems for victims and bystanders.