the truth about bullies today

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THE TRUTH ABOUT BULLIES TODAY

WHO IS A BULLY?

What does it mean to “bully” someone?

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Systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students.

BULLYING IS:

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•Physical•Emotional•Technological

BULLYING CAN BE:

• Break into groups of 4-5 students.

• As a group, decide whether you believe each of the ten statements about bullies or bullying is true or false. You have 10 minutes to decide.

• Try to reach a unanimous decision.

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Exercise: A quiz about bullies

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What did each group decide?

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Let’s look at each statement on the list.

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1. Nearly one-third of American teenagers are involved in bullying.

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2. Less than 10% of American teenagers admit to bullying others.

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3. Students who are bullied in school usually pay attention and have good attendance records.

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4. Most students who bully are insecure.

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5. Contrary to stereotypes, male bullies are not usually bigger and physically stronger than their victims.

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6. Students who witness bullying often refuse to remain friends with the victim and feel guilty for not reporting the incident.

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7. Bullies have trouble making friends.

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8. Bullies do poorly in school compared to those who do not bully.

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9. Most bullies stop their violent or aggressive behavior when they become adults.

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10. If you are being bullied, it is best to handle it alone.

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What can we do to stop bullying in

schools?

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In any bullying incident, there are at least 2 people involved:

• The BULLY, and • The VICTIM.

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Sometimes, a third person or group is involved:

The BYSTANDER

Why?Because a bully likes to

have an audience!

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• Ignore the bully and walk away.

• Walk to class in a group—bullies tend to attack when you are alone.

• If you know where bullies hang out, avoid that area or route.

If you are a victim of bullying, what are your options and resources?

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• Tell the bully to stop his or her conduct in an assertive voice.

Note: If there is any risk to your personal safety, do not take this approach.

• Tell someone who can help. Note: Public schools are required by law to

investigate reports of bullying.

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• Don’t join in the bullying conduct!• Befriend the victim. Remember, bullies tend to prey on people who are alone.• Walk with the victim to class.

What if you observe bullying? Can you help and make a difference?

Answer: YES!

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• Tell the bully to stop. Note: As with a victim, if there is any risk

to your personal safety, do not take this approach.

• Make an excuse that gets the victim away from the bully. (Example: “Hey Steve, the principal wants you to come to her office NOW.”).

• Report the incident to an adult.

What else can you do as an observer?

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TELLING IS NOT TATTLING

• “Tattling” is when a student tells an adult about another student’s actions simply to get him or her into trouble.

• “Telling” is when a student speaks to an adult about another student’s actions because those actions were unsafe or hurt another person.

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There are many reasons to be concerned about bullies even if you are not the victim of their attacks.

You can help stop bullying in your school!

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