Bullying

We all have the right to be respected and are responsable of respecting others. Bullying occurs when a person is continuously bothered by a more powerful individual or group; because of physical strength or social level.

Some bullies attack their victims physically, by pushing, hitting, or sexual abuse. Others use psychological control or verbal insults so they can be in control of the situation.

One of the most difficult aspects of bullying is inclemency. It feels interminable, the victim is constantly afraid and in many situations it can affect their school work and health.

Many bullies share some characteristics. They like to dominate others and only think in themselves. Frequently they have a lack of social skills and make bad decisions in their social life. Most think they are superior and that they have the right to bother others. Some are insecure. They make other look bad so they can feel more interesting and powerful. Some bullies behave like this because they have being victims themselves. Other bullies have personality disorders that doesn't aloud them understand normal social emotions, such as guilt, empathy, compassion or remorse.

What are some of the possible consequences of bullying others?

• Increased likelihood of being involved in other forms of antisocial behavior (shoplifting, vandalism etc.)
• Depression. All bullies are unhappy, because although people fear them nobody respects them
• Suicidal ideation

What are some of the possible consequences of being bullied?

• Feelings of isolation and exclusion
• Difficulty forming healthy, positive relationships
• Feelings of unattractiveness and inadequacy
• Less success academically
• Poor health/physical problems
• Feelings of anger, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, shame, uselessness and fear
• Low self-esteem
• Absenteeism and dislike of school
• Depression

What Can You Do?

• Tell someone, preferably an adult you trust, such as a teacher or counsellor. The best way for small children to resolve bullying is by telling an adult. In the case of a teenager that depends on the type of bullying. When the bullying threatens the physical integrity of a person it's imperative to tell an adult.
• Be away of places where you know bullies like to be and ignore them.
• Don't get angry or show your fear. Don't' use your physical strength. If they know you are afraid they will keep bothering you.
• Try not to be alone. When out, try to always be with a friend or in a large crowd.
• Believe in yourself. Act confident. Hold you head up high and look the bully right in the eyes, walk straight.
• Don't respond to violence, and don't carry guns with you.
• Talk about the problem with a school counsellor, a teacher or a friend, he will give you the support you need.

What If You're the Bully?

It is never too late to change. Even though it seems to difficult at the beginning. You can use your power in a positive way. If you feel you cannot resist the temptation of bullying by your own convictions, talk with someone you trust that will help you change and will give you advice.

Reference:

• www.bullying.org
• http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/en_espanol/mente/bullies_esp.html
• http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/problems/bullies.html