'I was raised to be a people pleaser': the connection between trauma, upbringing, and bullying

08/03/22 • 23 min

For some people, their ability to deal with bullying is impacted by past trauma. Sarah is a lecturer in mental health and a domestic violence survivor. It has been a dark year for her. Years of trauma and social pressure led to a break down. She was unable to go back to work and unable to defend herself against the bullying she was facing. In this episode of 'Harmful', we explore how past experiences, upbringing, and cultural context influence what we deem acceptable in the ways others treat us.

Previous Episode

'Trapped, helpless, and terrified': Workplace bullying takes a toll

As a public healthcare worker, Lucy never imagined she could be a victim of workplace bullying. Paula faced years of abuse, harassment and even death threats working in the mining industry. In this episode of the podcast ‘Harmful’, hear two women’s shocking experiences of workplace bullying and how it lead to long lasting psychological harm. Recognising bullying behaviours early is important in minimising health risks. But it isn't always easy to get help. Without organisational support individuals are often left feeling trapped in toxic situations.

Next Episode

‘I'm helpless’: How do parents cope with the impact of bullying on their children?

In this episode of Harmful, we learn how three mothers - Ruth, Becky and Lara - coped while supporting their children who were being bullied at school. Ruth’s son was only twelve years old when he tried to end his own life because of the bullying he faced. Becky never imagined how much watching her son being bullied would test her perseverance. Racism and bullying forced Lara and her family out of rural Victoria, searching for a new school community that would offer a sense of belonging. Instead, her son continues to be ostracised.