Bullying in Sports: A Guide for Parents and Athletes
What to do if your budding athlete is being bullied.
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Bullying in Sports - Bullying is a national issue in schools, in the office and even in professional sports. On the last day of National Bulling Prevention Month, Oct. 31, Miami Dolphins tackle Jonathan Martin left the NFL amid rumors that he was bullied by teammates. While the NFL Players Association is investigating claims of “rookie tax” or hazing, parents can’t help but wonder if bullying is going on in professional sports, is it also happening on the high school, college and even peewee-league level? What you need to know about bullying in sports. —Dominique Zonyéé(Photo: Blend Images/Kris Timken/Getty Images)
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What Is Bullying? - Bullying is intimidation, plain and simple. Bullies typically have one agenda to control and make a “weaker” person they deem inferior do what they want them to do. In school environments, on many occasions bullying can lead to “hazing,” forcing people to earn acceptance by doing humiliating acts. At least 1.5 million high school students have been hazed. (Photo: Fuse/Getty Images)
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What Does Bullying in Sports Look Like? - If your child is being bullied on the field, on the court or in any sport, it can come in many forms such as a bully targeting your child for team mistakes, unwarranted screaming or yelling directed at your child, or repeated insults and/or threats. Bullying in sports can also go beyond the arena with emails or cyber-bullying via social media platforms.(Photo: Ocala Star-Banner /Landov)
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Who Are Vulnerable Targets? - It is important to talk to your child about their self worth and self-esteem, as bullies typically pick on people who they not only deem physically weak but also emotionally and mentally weak. Exemplifying high self-esteem and knowing when to lead and when to follow can deter bullies from picking your child as a target. (Photo: Elsa/Getty Images).
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Motivating Your Child - Motivation can go a long away. Children who receive the right sort of support and encouragement in their youth will be creative, adventurous learners throughout their lives. Parents should lead by example showing support for their star athletes by attending games, cheering and showing interest in sports and activities that are important to their children.(Photo: Scott Halleran /Allsport)
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