Bullying 9 th grade Advisory

What Does It Really Mean? Bullying is not the same as fighting or teasing. Bullying has four conditions: –Bullies have unequal power over their targets. They have some advantage. –They intend to harm, humiliate or embarrass their targets. –They repeat their bullying behavior. –They appear “matter of fact” about the attacks. Bullying is not always physical.

How Do I Deal With It? Realize you do not deserve to be bullied. Tell someone! Tell your parents, a friend, the counselor, a teacher, someone! Try to ignore it. Try to walk away, if possible. Act like it doesn’t bother you. Try not to show that you are angry or upset. Don’t fight back if you can help it. Walk tall and be confident (if you’re not, pretend). Stay with others. Ask the bully to repeat what they said. That can sometimes put them off and gives you control of the situation. Try comedy. Think of some funny or clever replies in advance.

What If I’m Not the One Being Bullied Don’t be a bystander! If you see someone being bullied, get help. If you feel comfortable, try to diffuse the situation.

Are You a Bully? Do you mean to upset or hurt others? Is something making you miserable? Do you care if bad things happen to other people? Do you feel bad when you hurt others? Do you like to be in charge and always get your way? Do you believe others deserve to be bullied? Are you bullied? Do you feel lonely or left out? Is there a particular person you pick on? Do you get a thrill by hurting others or taking their things? Are you bigger or stronger that other people your age? Do you have influence over other people? Do you identify with violence and cruelty?

Ways People Bully Physical – pushing, shoving, tripping, harassing, etc. Verbal – rumors, lies, gossip, name calling, isolating or giving someone the silent treatment Use of internet – stealing passwords and usernames, impersonating others, creating a fake profile, posting insulting things online