Everyone has heard the saying: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” The problem is, this statement is not the least bit true. Name-calling is one of the most damaging and painful types of bullying. It leaves victims with negative messages about who they are. It’s also harmful because name-calling attempts to falsely define people.1
For instance, calling someone “fat,” “retard,” “nerd,” or any other derogatory name chips away at the target’s self-esteem, sense of self-worth, and self-concept. To make matters worse, name-calling happens a lot and can encourage that behavior in your child.
What Is Name-Calling?
Name-calling is abusive, derogatory language, or insults. It is a form of relational bullying. Sadly, this behavior is common among kids. Name-calling, which is sometimes dismissed as teasing or ribbing, is often present in sibling bullying. However, this type of talk is very hurtful and can harm a child’s sense of self.
In fact, 75% of elementary school students say they are called names on a regular basis at school. They also consistently witness students call others words like “stupid” or “spaz” and nearly 50% hear things like “you’re so gay” or “that’s so gay.” Swear words and derogatory euphemisms for body parts are also used.
Meanwhile, frequency is just as bad or worse at the middle school and high school levels with nearly 65% of students indicating that name-calling is a serious issue at their school.1 Regardless of the names the victim is called, the underlying and repeating messages are “you are not accepted” and “you’re not good enough.” Name-calling can be a form of prejudicial bullying.
