My son is being bullied in school. How do I help him deal with this…?
without instigating more fallout with his peers. It is all verbal and he is very sensitive. He just started middle school and is dealing with abandonment issues from his natural mother. I want to help him develop a thick skin without alienating his feelings. Any suggestions?
Suggestions above re: Karate (or a derivative) are very good. Seriously take this into consideration. Works miracles for self confidence and develops a gentleman’s thick skin. Do not try to develop the traditional thick skin of being surly, threatening or unfeeling. Bad way to go.
Using a sense of humor is the correct response: Bad hair day: “Hey, nice call, Brad. The cat tried to eat my head and this is what is left of my hair. You got a skull cap I can borrow?” One of those and the tide turns. He and the bully become friends and then the two of them bully some other poor kid.
Kids who suffer the parents inability to handle a divorce with class and learn how to co-parent are often “sensitive.” One on one therapeutic counseling with a good therapist (get referrals) for 5 - 8 sessions is indicated. He is dealing with abandonment issues from both parents because he knows it takes two to tango. If there is a stepmother or, god forbid, another woman living in the home as g.f., then his anger turned inward is intense and you have a serious problem. Male therapist.
—-
Teach him how to be man, and stand up to his bullies. I’m not necessarily saying that he should get into fights, but he has to stand up for himself. Once he can show that he is not afraid, they will leave him alone (sooner or later)