In the Caribbean, the saying “Joke for children is death for Crapo” serves as a cautionary proverb, reminding us that what may seem harmless to some can have severe consequences for others. This wisdom rings especially true in the context of bullying.

The recent tragedy involving Jayden Lalchan, a 15-year-old from Trinidad who took his own life due to prolonged bullying, highlights the urgent need for understanding and action. It’s time to recognise why bullying happens, how to spot the signs, and what can be done to intervene early.

Why Do Bullies Become Bullies?

Bullying is a complex behaviour with various underlying causes. In many cases, children who bully others are facing issues themselves:

• Home Environment: Exposure to violence, neglect, or overly harsh discipline at home can lead to aggressive behaviours. Children may mimic what they see or experience, using bullying as a way to assert control.
• Personal Insecurities: Many bullies struggle with low self-esteem or unresolved emotional issues, which they mask through dominance over others.
• Peer Pressure and Cultural Norms: In some Caribbean contexts, rough play or teasing may be normalised, blurring the line between harmless fun and harmful behaviour. Peer pressure can encourage children to act out to gain acceptance.

Early Warning Signs of a Bully

Parents and teachers can play a critical role in identifying bullying behaviours before they escalate. Some signs to watch for include:

• Increased Aggression: Children who frequently exhibit physical or verbal aggression towards peers may be showing early signs of bullying tendencies.
• Defensiveness or Blame Shifting: If a child often deflects blame onto others and refuses to take responsibility for their actions, this could indicate a need for intervention.
• Social Manipulation: This can include excluding peers from groups, spreading rumours, or using social media to target others. Such behaviours may begin subtly but can escalate quickly.

Steps to Intervene and Turn the Situation Around

Taking early action can prevent bullying behaviours from becoming ingrained. Here are some steps to help:

• Open Communication: Encourage open dialogue with children about their feelings and relationships. Let them know it’s safe to talk about anything that troubles them.
• Positive Reinforcement: Use positive behaviour modelling to encourage empathy and kindness. Praise actions that show respect for others.
• Collaborate with Schools: If bullying signs appear, work with educators to create an action plan. Schools need to actively monitor situations and establish clear consequences for bullying.