Discussion 5

Choose one of the following questions/topic:

1. I invite you to recall their own experiences with bullies (or being a bully). Consider the following questions in your response:

Where do bullies fit in the system of popular and unpopular children? How was bullying dealt with when you were younger? How is it dealt with today? What happens to bullies when they become older? What advice should parents give their children who are victimized by a bully? Should a child be encouraged to defend him or herself? When should he or she use adult resources? Is it always wrong to hit (such as in self-defense)? Are self-defense and retaliation different? Some school districts have gone to a policy of zero-tolerance for aggressive behavior. How do these policies affect the social climate for children? Should school interfere with the natural behaviors and interactions of children?

2. What are some environmental factors that contribute to challenges with maintaining a healthy body weight and a healthy body image? Are pre-pubecent children “safe” from the influences of an image-focused society? How does the increase in autonomy at this age help or hinder the development of healthy habits that contribute to optimal physical and mental health?