School bullying School is the main place where children spend the day with their peers. Since social and economic status plays an important role in children's behavior. In early childhood, income can impact a child's academic performance and later behavioral problems. By the time a child reaches middle school, income levels do not influence negative behavior. But when the child gets to high school he may be teased about how he dresses because he may not have nice clothes like other children, or he may simply choose to dress differently. Which can lead to school bullying. Bullying is a serious problem and must be prevented. A bully is defined as behaving aggressively or hurting a person repeatedly overtime. School bullying can start at any time, from elementary school to high school. Over 5.7 teenagers in the United States are involved in school bullying (about.com). Boys tend to be more physically bullied while girls are more prone to verbal bullying. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, kids who are frequently bullied may be five times more likely to be more or severely depressed and four times more likely to be suicidal. Girls are three times more likely to be severely depressed and eight times more likely to be suicidal. Some children are afraid of going to school, which can lead to poor grades or lack of concentration. It is difficult for students to concentrate in school when they are worried about their bully. Bullying can make school a place of fear and can lead to school violence. The dangers of school bullying can be seen in the Columbine massacre, listed as one of the five deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. April 20, 1999 in the small town of Littleton, Colorado. Two high school students Dylan Klebold and...... middle of paper...... Each school must evaluate what its potential risks are and what measures to take to ensure the safety of students and staff. Additionally, some schools invite speakers to tell their story of what happened to them and how it affected their lives. Some students can identify with a story and, in turn, it can have a huge impact on their emotions and behavior. Ultimately school bullying has existed for centuries and will continue for many more years, but prevention and awareness are key to reducing the problem of school bullying. Sources Cited “A Better Way to Handle Juvenile Delinquency” International Child and Youth Care Network. Vol.12.N.2. Page 350, October 2004 http://childparenting.about.com/od/schoollearning/tp/bullying-in-schools-what-parents-should-know.htm http://www.usnews.com/usnews/news/ articles /070419/19colombina.htm