Local Psychiatrist to Get Inside The Mind of the Bully

Dr. Steve Wruble of the has been a child psychiatrist for decades, and, because of the nature of his work, he has dealt with the issue of bullying for just as long. On Sunday, Feb. 27 from 1:00 to 2:15 p.m. at the Venn Center, he will share some of his insights into bullying, and perhaps more importantly, into the bully.

“Usually it takes being bullied in order to be a bully,” said Dr. Wruble. “And, not to go over and be sorry for the guy…but to have some awareness and see that they are working through something internally. And, what are you working through? Why are you an easy target?”

With the advent of the internet, bullying, which of course has always existed, has begun to change forms and to bring out the bully in people who otherwise might have never considered bullying.

“I think with the internet and access to communicating one’s feelings, but yet with a certain distance that you don’t have to be there, it gives kids who normally wouldn’t abuse this power, and yet, it’s a two-way thing, because the other person has to accept that as hurtful,” said Wruble.

Wruble added: “Schools realized this is a problem, so they’re kind of reacting to a problem that hit them, that blindsided them. So, just dealing with bullying misses the larger issue of teaching children what normal development is.”

The event, which was posted by Wruble’s colleague and coworker Jennifer Tanner here on Patch, notes that “Viewing the game from the bully’s point-of-view helps kids, teens and adults understand the target-seeking behavior of a bully. Is bullying random or not? You’ll be surprised.”

Ridgewood has had a by a student in recent months on the heels of the international news stories regarding , the Rutgers freshman who took his own life after repeated incidents of bullying. A strict anti-bullying bill was passed by the state legislature in part because of Clementi's story.

This event should have value not only for children who are suffering through bullying or who may themselves be bullies, but also for parents and adults who may have experience with bullying, Wruble said.

“You want to intrigue them and help parents, not blame them, but just at least have them own their part and create a dialogue around it and empower them in that moment to have an open discussion about a vulnerable part of their life,” said Wruble.

Those interested in attending should RSVP by calling (201)-444-6824.