ASK Dr Devi Raj
Bullying: 10 Questions Parents Ask
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
Dr. Devi Raj is a Developmental Psychologist, Certified Life Coach and Child Behaviour Specialist with over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families. At Pranaah Psychological Counselling Centre, she provides evidence-based psychological assessments, parenting guidance, developmental interventions, and emotional wellbeing services for families across Kollam, Karunagappally, Kerala, and through online consultations worldwide.
Disclaimer
This content is intended for general educational information and does not replace individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency care.
Bullying :
10 Questions Parents Ask
“Ask Dr. Devi Raj” is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
The answers are educational and should not be used as a substitute for individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency support.
1. How do I know if my child is being bullied?
Look for sudden school avoidance, injuries, missing belongings, withdrawal, sleep changes, declining marks or loss of friendships.
2. Why won't my child tell me about bullying?
Children may fear retaliation, embarrassment, parental overreaction or being blamed.
3. Should I directly confront the bully's parents?
Usually begin with the school or organisation responsible for safeguarding the children.
4. Is teasing always bullying?
No. Bullying typically involves repeated harmful behaviour and an imbalance of power.
5. Can cyberbullying cause serious emotional distress?
Yes. Online harassment can follow the child into the home and spread quickly.
6. Should children fight back physically?
Physical retaliation can increase risk. Assertiveness, documentation and adult intervention are usually safer.
7. What if my child is bullying others?
Set firm boundaries while exploring peer influence, anger, insecurity, empathy and emotional-regulation difficulties.
8. Can bullying cause school refusal?
Yes. A child may avoid school because they no longer feel safe there.
9. Does bullying affect academic performance?
It can interfere with concentration, attendance, motivation and confidence.
10. When should a bullied child receive counselling?
When fear, low self-esteem, withdrawal, sleep problems, school refusal or significant behavioural changes persist.