Children with Disabilities

18. Higher levels of bullying

Higher levels of bullying of disabled children have been found in a number of recent studies and in some instances the severity of bullying or harassment of disabled children could be classified as assault or abuse. 

The experience or anticipation of being bullied can shape a young person’s sense of self and social relationships and can have a corrosive and damaging impact on their self-esteem, mental health, social skills and progress at school. 

For some disabled children bullying can be an insidious and relentless pressure that can dominate their lives, leaving them feeling depressed and withdrawn. 

The lack of self esteem resulting from bullying can create can in itself make disabled children more vulnerable to abuse. (Gov.uk, July 2009)