What is bullying?

Bullying is something that someone does over and over and will not stop even when you have asked them to do so.

Bullying can take many different forms such as:

calling someone unkind or unpleasant names.
teasing.
physically hurting by hitting, punching or pushing.
ignoring someone.
threatening someone or making them afraid.
spreading unpleasant or untrue rumours.

Can you think of any others?

Bullying is NOT normal or acceptable.

remember that the person being bullied is not at fault.
no one has to put up with being bullied under any circumstances.
if you are being bullied it does not mean that you are not a nice person or you have done something wrong.
we are all different and special, and we must value those things that make us unique.

Can you think of all the things that make you special?

Understanding the bully and the victim

Unfortunately, people are victims of bullying for many different reasons. Some of the reasons for being bullied can include
a person's. -

name
hair colour, fashion sense, height, weight and looks (called 'body shaming')
skin colour, race and religion (called prejudiced behaviour and includes 'racism')
sexuality (called 'homophobia')
social background and school work (called prejudiced behaviour)

Can you think of any others?

There are many reasons why a person may start bullying others, such as:

to be popular or look tough
attention
power over others or to make people afraid
jealousy
may be being bullied themselves

Can you think of any other reasons?

How to stop bullying

Being a victim of bullying can be very scary.

Here are some important things to think about which can be helpful. An adult can ask the bullies why they are behaving that way and can make sure it doesn't happen again. If it does happen again then the bullies must expect that there will be the consequences.

if you are being bullied, you might feel as though you are alone and no one cares
your life might suffer as a result of the bullying because you are always worrying about what might happen to you
remember you are NOT alone
there is always something you or others can do to help the situation
the key is to tell a parent, carer, teacher or adult you trust
telling a responsible adult means you don't have to carry the worry all by yourself

Can you think of any others?

Being a good young citizen

Think about how you would feel if you were being bullied and someone who knew what was happening did not help you.

If you know someone who is being bullied you could:

offer to help the person being bullied by being their friend
tell a responsible adult so they can deal with the situation.

Can you think of any other ways to be a good citizen?

It would not be wise to fight the bullies yourself. They may be stronger than you. An adult will be able to help. If it happens at school, tell the teacher. If it happens outside of school, tell your family.

Remember that fighting someone to stop their bullying would not be a good decision for you to make.

More places to discover information about 'Bullying. Click on the link to learn more

Anti-Bullying Alliance

National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)

Young Minds