What is sexual bullying and harassment?
Sexual bullying is a type of bullying, where it can humiliate someone because of their sexuality or gender. They would also be picked on by a certain individual when using sexual language, gestures, or violence, and judging people’s appearance. Sexual bullying is also pressured to act in a way that make others uncomfortable.
Sexual harassment is a negative behaviour, which violates your self-respect. It makes you feel afraid or humiliated, and it is very offensive. This happens in and out of school, within social groups and online. It is as serious as any form of crime, and you should be careful to not get into situations like this.
Forms of sexual bullying
There are many forms of sexual bullying that could have an effect on people. Such as, being abusive, sexualised name calling, homophobic language, and insults. Certain individual would be spreading rumours online or in person, judging appearances, and inappropriate touching without consent. They could also put pressure on an individual to send nudes or to do something they don’t want to do. This specific behaviour includes emotional blackmail; they would take a picture under someone’s clothing without their consent, and that is offensive. It is not legal to send a photo or video to people and under-aged children. In addition to this, there are also sexist and gender stereotypes, pornography and sexual content, and sexual assault or rape.
What is sexism?
Sexism involves language or prejudice and shows as a global discrimination. There are some people who tend to have stereotypical views on men and women. There are limited options for women and girls, and they are left untreated and discriminated.
Some men out there tend to be sexually active and have many affairs. Whereas women would get shamed and bullied for doing the same thing. Women are not equal to men. Now, we all have the responsibility to teach children and young people to stand up against being stereotyped for their gender.
The impact of sexual and sexist bullying
Sexual bullying can have an effect on an individual’s self-respect and safety, as well as their emotional wellbeing. It can lead to depression, self-harm, eating disorders and loneliness. It is very common for sexual bullying to go viral online and in person.
Despite the fact that the vast majority of women are adversely affected, men and boys are also victims of sexual bullying. They too feel powerless to prevent it, pressured to do something they don’t want to do, and are constantly shamed for refusing sexual favours. The impact can last for a lifetime if they are not supported and encouraged to open up about their feelings. Although, it isn’t easy for men to be open-minded because as stereotypical views, it shows men are raised to have strong manners, are tough, and rarely show emotions.
Talk to your child
It is very important to teach children and teenagers on the issues of sexual and sexist bullying, so they can make the right choice. Have a private, safe conversation with your child, but ask the right questions. Find out if your child is fine, what is going on with them, and who are the people they spend time with.
It can be really difficult for them to open up right away as they may get worried about how parents would react and respond. Just simply, avoid arguments, shouting, blame or shame, otherwise they will shut you out. And keep emotions in check.
If they have experienced sexual or sexist bullying, or harassment, then they will require plenty of love, support, and care from you and their peers. They will need to feel secure and know they are not to blame.
What can you do?
This type of bullying is extremely serious, and the person may need emotional support and counselling to handle the situation.
Please, be open to report your issues to the school or police. And have screenshots of evidence with you. If you have sent a nude photo or video of themselves, you can report the post to remove it.
If you are concerned about your child’s sexual behaviour and have a feeling, they are pressuring others, please speak to someone for advice and guidance.
