No Name-Calling Week customarily falls in the middle of January, and it’s designed to raise awareness about bullying — both in school classrooms and outside the classroom, in schoolyards and on social media sites. Calling people names, regardless of whether they’re children or adults, causes real harm that can lead to serious consequences for the victim.

Studies have shown that bullying and name-calling can cause a decline in academic achievement, depression, anxiety, and various other problems. That’s why observing this week is so important.

If we all take the time to recognize the problems caused by bullying and emotional abuse, we can provide educators, administrators, and students with the resources they need to combat it both in and out of school.

The History of No Name-Calling Week

This week was created in 2004 by Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing in partnership with GLSEN Research. They took inspiration from “The Misfits,” a 2001 novel written by James Howe.

This week is designed to give educators and students the tools they need to address bullying. Over the past few years, the popularity of this week has really taken off, and more schools are participating than ever before.

Facts About Bullying

To illustrate the damage caused by bullying and name-calling, we’ve included a few facts on the subject below.

• Bullying not only affects those who are bullied but also those who witness the bullying.
• Bullying also affects the bully themselves, and bullies can develop depression and other psychiatric issues.
• Adults can help address bullying by discussing the subject with children.
• About 20% of students between the ages of 12 and 18 experience bullying.
• About 43% of bullying occurs in the hallway, 42% in the classroom, and 26% in the cafeteria.
• Bullying also takes place on school grounds, in bathrooms, and on social media.

Observing No Name-Calling Week

Anyone and everyone is encouraged to participate during this week. This can be done by launching an anti-bullying program at a school, promoting essay competitions on the subject, or simply reviewing school policies and making adjustments when necessary.

People can also spread the word about this observance week on social media using the hashtag #NoNameCallingWeek.