One of the arguments some people make against homeschooling is that parents are keeping their children from learning how to be social and deal with people who bully. As if one needs to grow a thicker skin and that this can only be done by being emotionally and or physically abused in a public setting. This I always find shocking. First, most people educated on the topic know that most homeschoolers are well socialized, though of course there are exceptions. Second, I argue with the notion that there is a positive side to being around a bully.
I posted this a bit back on facebook:
Over 1/3rd of students report being bullied. Studies show being bullied does NOT build character. Step in and step up for your children. Protecting them will not stunt them, it will help them thrive.
A source to support my opinion:
http://www.education.com/reference/article/bullying-myths-facts/?page=2
Myth #3: Being a victim builds character.
Another misconception is that bullying is a normal part of childhood and adolescence and that the experience of peer harassment builds character. In contrast to this view, research findings quite clearly show that bullying experiences increase the vulnerabilities of children. For example, we know that children who are passive and socially withdrawn are at heightened risk of getting bullied and that these children become even more withdrawn after incidents of harassment (6).
There are many other sources and many schools are stepping up to take on this battle. If your school is failing your child however and your consider homeschooling, please know this is one valid reason, find the others too! Homeschooling is not the best choice for everyone, but it is a choice and can be the best choice depending on the family.
