How to End Bullying

Each dreaded September, the victim returns to school, fearful that once again, he/she will be picked on, mocked, humiliated, bullied.  That our wonderful children and terrific grandchildren, can sit by and allow this, goes beyond my comprehension!  The first week of school, I made time to discuss a life lesson, which did not incorporate the Language Arts..other than communication skills.

In life, as in school, you will find yourself in one of four groups. The first group is that of the perpetrators. These are the kids that take advantage of others (People do this in the real world, too). They use their words to frighten and humiliate others. They are sometimes physically forceful. At other times, they merely use their cutting words to chop someone up in little pieces.

The second group is that of victims. This group comprises a number of unsuspecting kids. Surely, no one volunteers to enter into this group! Victims, all want to escape from being trapped in this group. It is very difficult to do this alone.

The third group is the largest group of the four. It is the witnesses. These kids watch and listen, and although they may not like what is going on..they pretend not to hear it. They turn their back; some walk away.  Probably from fear, they see/hear attacks but remain silent...even when questioned by the principal or the dean (or in life...by the police).

The fourth group is the group that is known as the defenders. This group is compromised by confident, independent, kind-hearted kids that are not afraid of the opinions of others. They stand up for the victims. They do this, in several ways. Defenders get help (In life..they dial 911)!! Instead of becoming part of the witnesses, they run for a teacher, or the person in charge of the event/activity.

Another way, of being in the defenders is by forming an alliance with your friends.. to never allow someone to be bullied in your presence. There is power in numbers!! A bully, tough guy or tough girl, WILL BACK down when more than one defender makes their point. "Stop it or we're reporting you." Sure, the bully may resort with something demeaning like.."Aww...baby is getting help from Mr. So-and-so." Or they may say.."Go ahead. Make me stop." One defender should always be ready to follow through and get assistance!

The others stand by, refusing to leave the victim. It simply is not worth it to them to continue to bully, if there is no audience. Most perpetrators like the attention they get from witnesses and their other bully friends. Alone, bullies are lonely, sad people. What group will you be in this year? Think about it.

 Peace. Tolerance for differences. Happy School term 2012-2013!