What Is Bullying?

Dec 27, 2006

On March 21, 2005, 16 year-old Jeff Weise of Red Lake, Minnesota arrived at school and killed five students, one teacher and one security guard, after already killing his grandfather and his grandfather's girlfriend. Many theories have been discussed as to why this horrible shooting took place, including that the young shooter had been continously bullied in school and out. Read on to find out how you can prevent bullying in your school.

Bully or Bully Hater?

Ask yourself this:

Do you make fun of people because of how they look or their grades?
Do you use physical force to get your way?
Are people afraid of you?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, YOU ARE A BULLY. Read on to get the scoop on what to do about bullying.

The Big, Bad Bully

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me." Is that what your parents tell you to say to that kid in math class who makes fun of your hair? That'll make the whole thing go away, right? Not. Fat chance. If you actually uttered those words you should expect to be picked on - heck you'd probably make fun of yourself. So what does work when trying to make a bully back off?

Dealing with Bullying

First things first. Who are bullies? Look around, they come in all shapes, colors and clothes. They can be popular or nerdy kids. Anybody who makes fun of, scares or hurts someone for fun and sport is a bully. Think of everybody you know - chances are you may even know more than one. You may even be one sometimes.

You Go Girl? Bullies in All Shapes and Sizes

Bullies are not just mean boys. Girls bully too. Boy bullies think that they're tough guys and push, hit, kick or slam you into a locker. Ouch!!! You know, they do things that you can see. Girl bullies can be more conniving. They whisper things about you, tell their friends to dis' you and spread nasty rumors. You may not see what they are doing, but it hurts just as bad.

Bullies - Ya Talkin'to Me?

Bullying is more than teasing. It can be words, threats or fists. Check yourself, if you feel like you are being bullied, you probably are. That means you need to talk to a trusted adult ASAP. If you're feeling lost or left-out, talking to someone about it is a step in the right direction. Sure, they might not be able to stop all the bullying, but chances are a school counselor, teacher or parent will try their best to give you the tools to deal with the bullying head on.

Letting it Out - Bully Solutions

If you're feeling bullied at school, you need to start finding an outlet for your pain and frustration. It totally sucks to be made fun of and picked on and all that negative energy can cause you to start feeling angry and hateful. Instead of letting those jerks get to you, try finding an activity that makes you feel good about yourself. Whether it's a sport like soccer or mountain biking, or even getting in touch with your artistic side by starting to paint or sculpt, it helps to have something you can channel all that built up frustration into.

What Celeb's Have to Say About Bullies

Here's what celebrities think of bullying and bullies:

"Don't be scared to tell a teacher, an older brother or sister, or parent. They can help you." - Sharif Abdur-Rahim, Portland Trailblazers.
"Have respect for yourself and pride enough to meet the situation head on. Learn to 'fight back' peacefully." - Stu Jackson, Vice-President of Operations, NBA.
"I was really tall and skinny. Other kids would call me a long, legged puma... My parents instilled confidence in me and helped me understand that not everyone will like you, but that is their problem." - Charmaine Crooks, 5-Time Olympian, International Olympic Committee Member.
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