Although the concept of bullying has been around for almost a hundred years it is only recently that you see it everywhere you look. May it be a newspaper, radio, television; some of you have even had to live it or are currently living it right now.
Most people associate bullying with hurting someone physically; however bullying is not limited to this. Physical bullying may include but is not limited to acts of violence or personal attacks. Verbal bullying may include but is not limited to taunting, name-calling, threats, intimidation, slurs, etc. A somewhat new type of bullying would be Cyber bullying which is the act of bullying through internet; usually social networking sites such as Facebook or Twitter. Unfortunately, we live in a society in which we have been taught that bullying is “just a part of life” or “part of character building” which is an absolute myth. Bullying is not normal and is not something that should be accepted in any place may it be school, work, etc.
Bullying in School
Unfortunately, bullying is an epidemic that is going on in schools around the world. Chances that a child is being bullied in school are higher than ever and this issue needs to be addressed. Students are constantly scared to say anything in schools as they are afraid of becoming victims. The fact is, that you do not need to be an adult to help. You could actually help those being bullied by not just being a bystander. A bystander is someone that stands by and watch bullying according. It is proven that by standing by and watching a bully, you are encouraging the bully to keep doing what they are doing. Statistically, a bully will stop within ten seconds 57% of the time if a bystander intervenes while bullying is occurring. If you do not feel comfortable speaking up however, you could go and get help! It is not wrong to go see an adult and discuss the issue with them. Finally, be a friend to a victim of bullying. By ignoring a victim you are joining the issue and not stopping it.
Research shows that victims of bullying are likely to hurt themselves or even commit suicide. It is extremely sad that an issue that could so easily be rectified has to end with such tragedy. Suicide is not the answer in any situation including bullying. It is important to talk to your parents or your school staff about this issue. There are many ways to resolve this issue and not be considered a snitch. Simply keeping a positive attitude could help with putting an end to being a victim of bullying. Do not forget to remind yourself about all the positive things in your life. Finally, intimidating someone else to make yourself feel better should not be an option!
E-mail: banishbullying@fight4it.ca