Bullying
Did you know that 90% of teens that were bullied online were reported being bullied offline as well? Bullying by definition is, “use of superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants.” Bullying has a huge factor in almost 90% of the teen population, 4,400 teens take their lives each year due to bullying. My cousin once told me she was bullied for being fat, she is 9 years old. Is this what we want our children to be like?
To start, 55% of teens are bullied for their looks, 37% body image, 16% race, (Pacar.org). Since gay marriage was legalized on June 26, 2015, 81.9% of teens are bullied for coming out as LGBT, (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender). Just for sexual orientation,
…show more content…
A study by Lancet psychiatry states that, “Teens being bullied by peers have suffered worse long-term effects.” These researchers have studied that adolescents are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, and consider self-harm or even suicide over the course of being bullied or later in life.” Furthermore, adolescents tend to other things to help with their depression and anxiety, whether it be drugs, or even becoming a bully themselves. Above all, bullying can cause effects on people, not just mentally but physically. 20% of teens have turned to alcohol or drugs to help with their depression, this is called self medication. Therefore, us as peers have to look out for others, even if they aren’t a …show more content…
Over the past few years 37 state laws have been adopted against bullying. The question is, are these laws being enforced well enough so people follow them? And the answer is no, which is why more severe punishment is needed. Some of these laws should require suspension of school days, or in worse cases expulsion. The victim should be required a sort of restraining order against the bully. The restraining order can possibly be made through the school system. Teachers should be watching out for such students, and making sure they aren’t in the same classes at the same