[originaltext]I: Good morning, listeners. Today we are very happy to invite Pro

I: Good morning, listeners. Today we are very happy to invite Professor Jackson Jones to discuss the problem of bullying with us. Nice to meet you, Professor Jones.
J: Pleased to meet you.
I: Almost all children and young people have to cope with bullying in one form or another during their school days. It is really a serious problem nowadays.
J: That’s true. And there are many types of bullying. It can range from teasing to name calling, from spreading nasty rumors about someone to threats of intimidation or actual physical aggression.
I: What kind of bullying is most serious?
J: It’s hard to say. There is often a fine line between some of these behaviors. What’s considered gentle teasing to one child might appear as intimidation to another. Also, the effects of bullying may vary according to the personality and strengths of the "victim". Many young people have to suffer some form of teasing and name calling, for example, on the school bus in the morning. However, some will find this more difficult to deal with than others.
I: That’s why some children find bullying a nightmare while others can take it easy.
J: True. There is no doubt that for some children and young people bullying, however defined, represents the most stressful experience of their lives. Some fear it so much that they refuse to go to school or find excuses to avoid situations where bullying can occur. At the most extreme level bullying can, on rare occasions, lead to a suicide attempt. This is why it has to be taken very seriously indeed. Of course we have to be clear that some forms of bullying are likely to have worse consequences than others. Children have to accept a certain level of teasing, and parents will need to provide support so that the child can deal with this. However, bullying to the extent of being physically threatened, or continually taunted, is very distressing and should not be tolerated.
I: Then what kind of children are more likely to get bullied?
J: Generally speaking, those with an obvious physical characteristic, such as being overweight, can become targets of bullying. Those with some form of disability can easily get bullied as well. Those who are shy or diffident, or who find it hard to stand up for themselves may also be vulnerable.
I: Can bullying be prevented anyway?
J: Bullying is not inevitable. It is worthwhile remembering that institutions such as schools, prisons and other residential environments can do an enormous amount to reduce bullying, so that in some places even the most vulnerable will be protected. One of the problems for victims of bullying is that very often such individuals feel ashamed of what is happening. They even blame themselves. It is here that friends and important adults have such a key role to play. Victims of bullying need support to see that it is not their fault. They are not to blame, and something can be done to help them.
I: Is there something we can do to prevent bullying?
J: Most people assume that bullying happens exclusively in the school setting. Since this is where children and young people spend a good deal of their time, it is understandable that teachers should pay more responsibility, However, it’s essential to remember that bullying can occur in other places as well. Individuals can be bullied in the home, possibly by an older sibling, or by a step-brother or sister. As I have noted above, prisons and other residential settings are also places where bullying is common. When thinking about bullying adults do need to keep in mind that it can occur anywhere, not just in school.
I: I see your point. Parents need to take action too.
J: Exactly. Parents can do an enormous amount to help, although sometimes it’s difficult to be clear how to proceed. Firstly, if your child is showing signs of stress and you aren’t sure what’s going on, be aware that bullying may be one possible cause. Secondly, you should know that all schools are required to have an anti-bullying strategy in place. As a parent you can find out if this is working. If it doesn’t work, get support from other parents to insist that it does. Thirdly, if you do find out that your son or daughter is being bullied, offer your help, but be sensitive to their needs too. Simply rushing into the school and demanding action from the Head is not necessarily the best tactic. However, the best thing to do is to talk things over with the child and plan a strategy that suits them. This may involve getting support from friends, or other parents. It may involve a quiet talk with a trusted teacher. It may even involve thinking about a change of school. The most important thing of all for a parent is to offer support to the child in a way that feels right for them.
I: You are quite right. Thank you Professor Jones for all the above advice.
J: My pleasure.
6. Which statement is TRUE according to the interview?
7. What can do an enormous amount to reduce bullying?
8. Where can bullying occur?
9. What should adults keep in mind about bullying?
10. What is the best action parents can take against bullying?