A speech-language pathologist considers and ponders that children who are being bullies at school may actually have other physical or mental issues rather than just wanting to pick on other kids. They could have autism, sensory issues or other problems that may be causing them to act out but they are seemingly normal children.
The school bully may not be a punk; he may have a sensory processing disorder.
School bully may have a sensory disorder causing their bad behavior.
She wonders if the bullies have a speech pathologist that they are seeing, or perhaps an occupational therapist to study and evaluate and hopefully provide a solution to the acting out. Schools need to be able to create an environment for children that is safe but where they can also thrive. Kids with emotional and physical issues need to be able to thrive as well.
What my experience has taught me is that often incidents that look like intentional violent behaviour are actually symptomatic of a childhood disorder, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Global Developmental Delay, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, and other communication delays or difficulties.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Key takeaways
- Bullying behaviour by young children with sensory disorders may be unintentional.
- Children with autism, fetal alcohol syndrome, and sensory processing disorders may have trouble with impulse control.
- Attempt to rule out sensory disorders using professionals before labeling a child a bully.
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