Silent Epidemic of Bullying Against Special Needs Children
Author: Ability Path
Published: 2011/02/15 - Updated: 2025/11/21
Publication Type: Informative
Contents: Synopsis - Definition - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates - Related Publications
Synopsis: This report documents the widespread yet underreported phenomenon of bullying targeting children with special needs, drawing from the "Walk a Mile in Their Shoes" study released by AbilityPath in partnership with major advocacy organizations. The information is particularly authoritative because it incorporates input from established national organizations including Special Olympics and Best Buddies, and prompted responses from elected officials and education leaders at both state and federal levels. What makes this resource valuable for families, educators, and caregivers is its focus on a vulnerable population often overlooked in mainstream anti-bullying discussions - children with disabilities face disproportionate rates of physical, emotional, and cyber harassment that can severely impact their development. The report's findings led to concrete action, including Congressional briefings and statewide awareness initiatives, demonstrating its credibility and real-world impact. For parents of children with special needs, seniors raising grandchildren with disabilities, and professionals working in special education, this research provides essential context for understanding and addressing a pervasive problem that affects some of society's most at-risk young people.
- Topic Definition: Bullying
Bullying is defined as the activity of repeated, aggressive behavior intended to hurt another individual physically, mentally, or emotionally. The behavior is often repeated and habitual. Bullying is a subcategory of aggressive behavior characterized by the following three criteria: (1) hostile intent, (2) imbalance of power, and (3) repetition over some time.
Introduction
AbilityPath launches Nationwide "Disable Bullying" Campaign - Joins with Special Olympics, Best Buddies, and Glee's Lauren Potter. Children with special needs are victims of a nationwide silent epidemic of bullying, according to the "Walk a Mile in Their Shoes" report released by AbilityPath, an online hub, and special needs community for parents and professionals of children with disabilities.
Main Content
"Bullying is every parent's fear," said Sheryl Young, CEO of Community Gatepath. "This report and guide were developed to include children with special needs in the national dialog and raise awareness about bullying, cyberbullying, and the devastating developmental effects it can have upon children with special needs."
In collaboration with Special Olympics and Best Buddies, AbilityPath announced its "Disable Bullying" campaign to engage a coalition of parents, educators, and policymakers. "Glee" actress Lauren Potter will represent the campaign as a spokesperson and be featured in its online public service announcement.
"This important report confirms the presence of a silent epidemic in our schools and communities," said Timothy Shriver, Chairman of the Special Olympics. Shriver called on young people to join the "Spread the Word to End the Word Campaign," a nationwide drive to end the use of the "R" word.
In response to the abuses detailed in the report, Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) announced plans to brief members of Congress.
"We have to explore every option to protect children with special needs, indeed all children from bullying," said Speier.
California Superintendent of Schools Tom Torlakson announced that he would call on schools to raise awareness about the bullying of children with special needs.
"I applaud the efforts AbilityPath has taken to bring attention to this critical issue; no child should have to endure the cruelty of bullying," said Torlakson.
Anthony K. Shriver, chairman of Best Buddies, endorsed the "Disable Bullying" campaign.
"If we can teach young people to respect their peers with special needs, to see them as classmates, as teammates, as friends - and most importantly - as equals, then we stand a good chance of putting an end to this epidemic," said Anthony K. Shriver.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: The tragedy isn't merely that bullying happens - it's that children with special needs often lack the social capital, communication tools, or support networks to report it effectively, making them particularly susceptible to repeated abuse that goes unnoticed by adults. When advocacy organizations, entertainment figures, and policymakers unite around research like this, it signals a potential turning point where society begins recognizing that protecting vulnerable children requires more than generic anti-bullying policies. Real change demands targeted interventions that account for the specific challenges faced by students with disabilities, along with education programs that teach neurotypical children to see their peers with special needs not as targets or oddities, but as classmates deserving of the same respect and friendship they extend to everyone else.Attribution/Source(s): This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by Ability Path and published on 2011/02/15, this content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity.