HANDLING GOSSIP AND RUMORS Social Harassment Day 1

KEY OBJECTIVES Through this unit, students can be helped to: offer healthy skepticism as a response to rumors. allow them to challenge unverifiable information. understand the consequences that spreading rumors can have for others and themselves. begin to comprehend the complex human motives behind spreading rumors. recognize that rumors can be started as a means to harass others.

GOSSIP & RUMORS What is gossip? What is a rumor?

GOSSIP Definition: Rumor or talk of a personal, sensational, or intimate nature. A person who habitually spreads intimate or private rumors or facts.

RUMORS A piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.

WHY DO PEOPLE SPREAD RUMORS? Because they think that they have information. Because they think it is harmless. To gain popularity. To embarrass others. To cause drama, turmoil, or confrontation. To seek revenge

THINKS THAT MAKE YOU GO ...HMMM..... Is celebrity gossip a form of entertainment? Is celebrity gossip good or bad? Do you believe all celebrity gossip? Can celebrity gossip be a form of bullying?

GOSSIP AND RUMORS Junior High can be miserable for victims of rumors and gossip. Even when the rumor turns out to be false – the damage has been done. Friendships are lost Emotional pain to victim Isolation of victim Rumors and gossip can be a form of harassment and bullying.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? Complete the worksheet individually. Discuss answers as a class.