S2 EP 17 - Outsmarting Bullies: Tainted Love
From The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast by Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW
January 27, 2026 · 19 min
About this episode
This episode explores the subtle and emotionally manipulative forms of bullying in middle school and their impact on children's confidence and safety.
Bullying in middle school isn’t always loud or obvious—and that’s what makes it so confusing and harmful. In this episode of Middle School Mary Poppins, child therapist and educational specialist Suzanne M. Swain, EDS, LMSW explores the subtle, strategic, and emotionally manipulative forms of bullying that often get overlooked by adults but deeply affect kids’ confidence and sense of safety. You’ll learn how power, group dynamics, humor, and digital spaces fuel bullying, why neurodivergent kids are often targeted, and how calm, smart responses can disrupt the cycle without escalating conflict. This episode offers practical, compassionate tools for kids, families, and educators who want to recognize bullying, support kids effectively, and help them feel safe and understood. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productio ns Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show
People in this episode
Host: Suzanne M. Swain
Topics covered
- bullying
- middle school
- emotional manipulation
- neurodivergent kids
- confidence
- safety
Keywords
- bullying
- middle school
- emotional manipulation
- neurodivergent
- confidence
- safety
- group dynamics
- digital spaces
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