Bullying

Definition of Bullying “A person is being bullied when he or she is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions on the part of one or more other persons.” - Dan Olweus, University of Bergen, Norway What do we mean by negative actions?

What do we mean by “negative actions”? “Negative actions” can be: Physical Verbal Mental Have students give examples for each type of action Physical – pushing, fighting Verbal – name calling Mental – looks, threats

Bullying behaviors have three common characteristics: Aggressive or intentional “harm doing” Repetitive; occurs over time Power differences between bully and victim

Brainstorm the following: Who gets bullied? Why does it happen? When does it happen? Who – size, gender, smarter, differences Why – differences, power When – school, parks, walking home from school, mall

Bullying Paradigm Bully Victim Bystander

Characteristics of The Victim: Depressed Quiet Smaller Passive Helpless Hopeless Low self-esteem

Characteristics of The Bully: Aggressive Doesn’t need to change Lack of personal responsibility Strong need to dominate No remorse

Characteristics of The Bystander: Participate Cheerleaders Mob mentality Fearful of becoming the victim

Brainstorm the following: What can you do if you are the victim of bullying? What can you do if you are the bystander?