Bullies using food allergy against victims
According to a recent survey, approximately one in every four children suffering from food allergies are bullied.
The survey was completed by 353 teens, adults up to age 25, and parents and caregivers of children with food allergies. A team of researchers at the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York.
When asked why they were bullied, nearly 79% said it was because of the food allergy and the rest believed they were bothered because of a number of related issues, including having to carry medication, being set apart at mealtimes and getting extra attention.
The survey found bullying does not just come from other children. Although 86% were teased repeatedly, most often by classmates, more than 20% of kids reported they were bullied or taunted by their teachers and other school staff.
Most troubling is that in many reported cases of bullying, the specific allergen was used by the bully against his victim. Around 43% of the children reported having the food they were allergic to waved in their face, and 64% reported verbal teasing. Approximately 65% of the victims reported feelings of embarrassment or depression.
The warning signs are similar to other forms of bullying. A child might seem sad, troubled, withdrawn, nervous or say that he or she does not want to attend school. However parents should also look for changes in their kids’ eating habits.
The researchers noted that nearly 12 million Americans, including 3 million children, have food allergies.
The human race is naturally cruel, as evidenced by the behavior of these “innocent” children. Empathy has to be learned, if you’re lucky.