Bullying

BULLYING

What is bullying?

Bullying includes a wide variety of behaviors. All involve one or more persons repeatedly saying or doing hurtful things to another person who has problems defending himself or herself. Bullying can happen in five ways:

1.) Physical such as hitting, kicking, and pushing;

2.) Verbal such as teasing, taunting, name-calling, spreading rumors, and encouraging others to reject or exclude someone;

3.) Sexual such as making sexual remarks or inappropriate touching;

4.) Property such as stealing, or damaging belongings and

5.) Cyber bullying such as sending mean text, e-mail, or instant messages; posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on Web sites; or using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone.

There is no reason to bully someone. No one deserves to feel unsafe or unwanted. NO ONE DESERVES TO BE BULLIED.

How does bullying affect teens who are the targets of bullies:

As a result of being bullied, teenagers can feel tense, anxious, and afraid. It can affect their concentration in school and can begin to affect their self-esteem and feelings of self-worth. Bullying can also lead them to become withdrawn and depressed. In extreme cases, bullying can be devastating when teens feel compelled to take drastic measures such as carrying weapons for protection or seeking violent revenge.

What can you do if you are being bullied?

If you are being bullied…

1. Tell your parents or an adult you can trust, such as a teacher, school counselor, or principal. Many teens who are targets of bullies do not talk to adults because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or fearful, and believe they should be able to handle the problem on their own. A trusted adult can help you develop a plan to end the bullying and provide you with the support you need. If the first adult you approach is not receptive, find another adult who will support and help you.

2. Avoid situations where bullying can happen. If at all possible, avoid being alone with bullies. If bullying occurs on the way to or from school, take a different route or leave at a different time, or find others to walk to and from school with. Stick with friends as much as possible.

3. Make friends with other students. A bully is more likely to leave you alone if you are with your friends. Especially, if you and your friends stick up for each other. Make friendships with people who share your interests by participating in extra-curricular activities or joining a group outside of school.

4. Act confident. Hold your head up, stand up straight, make eye contact, and walk confidently. A bully will be less likely to single you out if you project self-confidence.

5. Stay in control. It is ok to be upset but don’t let the bully see you cry, get angry or be upset — that is what they want — to see that they are in control and that you have lost control. Ignore the bully and walk away! Talk or write about it later.

If you are being bullied or if you are bullying someone and want to talk about it or need help thinking things out call: