Removing the Sport of Bullying Behavior

Over three quarters of children have either been victims of bullying or observers of such abuse, and 1 out of every 5 kids reports frequent bullying that makes their life miserable. These statistics are really scary, especially when it comes to recreational sports, competitive athletics and teams.

Bullying occurs because the individual dishing out the behavior uses it to meet one of life's five basic needs: life, happiness, caring, control, or purpose. Bullying is harmful because, at the same time as it meets the bully's need for control, it deprives the victim of his or her need for happiness and control of their own life and situation.

Early intervention and working with athletes to be “good team players” can drastically help. Coaches must learn the difference between “fair play and foul play” and must do a better job to correct the power imbalance that takes place between the bully and the victim.

We can do more to curb and prevent bullying. Join the movement and conversation with Dr. Joel Haber to find out how you can recognize and deal with the effects of bullying in sport. We’re LIVE at 7pm on Wednesday May 22, 2013 at BEYONDtheCheers on blogtalkradio. Dial-in TOLL FREE 1-877-357-2448 in Canada and United States to ask a question, or email in advance.