Bullying is when someone or a group of people deliberately upset or hurt another person, their property, reputation or social acceptance. This action is repeated over time. It is not just the 'big boys' who are responsible - friends can be bullies too. Bullying can happen anywhere, so it is important to try and understand what you can do to stop it and even prevent it from occurring at all.
Do you think you or any of your friends are being bullied? There are some common themes when this happens. Do you recognise any of the following signs?
If you do recognise any of the above things happening to you, there are things you can do. Most school have anti-bullying systems. You must always make sure you tell your teacher so they can start to help you. You should always confide in your parents and your friends. Keep a diary of what is happening.
If a bully confronts you, turn and walk away. Try not to show you are upset or angry - just ignore them. Don't fight back if you can help it, as it is not worth getting hurt. Try to think up funny or clever replies in advance. Try to avoid being alone in the places where you know the bully is likely to pick on you.
Have you ever thought that you have seen someone being bullied? It is always difficult to get involved in someone else's problem but these tips might help you to help someone else:
According to a new report from MSN, one in ten teenagers have been the victims of cyber bullying - receiving threatening emails or having unpleasant rumours about them spread on the internet.
Of course in this instance again you should tell an adult but there are other ways of preventing this from happening as well:
Bullies thrive on silence; those who are being intimidated feel there is no point in telling people about the bullying, therefore allowing it to continue. If you are a victim, there is one simple rule to follow; TELL, TELL, TELL - don't suffer in silence.