Warning signs of bullying

Warning signs at school

If a student is being bullied at school they may:

become aggressive and unreasonable
start to get into fights
refuse to talk about what is wrong
have unexplained bruises, cuts, scratches, particularly those appearing after recess or lunch
have missing or damaged belongings or clothes
have falling school grades
be alone often or excluded from friendship groups at school
show a change in the their ability or willingness to speak up in class
appear insecure or frightened
be a frequent target for teasing, mimicking or ridicule.

A parent may observe changes in their child’s behaviour at home which they can report to the school. Their child may:

have trouble getting out of bed
not want to go to school
change their method or route to school or become frightened of walking to school
change their sleeping or eating patterns
have frequent tears, anger, mood swings and anxiety
have unexplained bruises, cuts and scratches
have stomach aches or unexplained pain
have missing or damaged belongings or clothes
ask for extra pocket money or food
arrive home hungry
show an unwillingness to discuss, or secrecy about, their online communication.

Some changes in behaviour may also be a result of other student issues such as depression or substance abuse, which may require a different response.

Whether it involves bullying or other student issues, schools can help out for example by involving student wellbeing staff.

If you are a student who is being bullied, see: I'm being bullied
If you are a parent whose child is being bullied, see: My child is being bullied

Updated 18 January 2024