BULLYING PREVENTION…Character Education Lesson #2: September 2016

DRSL’S: What: What is YOUR part in the prevention of bullying?

Why: Responsible Citizen, Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Communication

WHAT EXACTLY IS BULLYING? Intentionally committing an act for the purpose of placing another

person in fear of physical harm or harm to the property of the person.

Let’s break the language down: Intentionally – purposely, knowingly Committing an act – can be verbally or physically or

psychologically Physical harm – pushing, blocking, tripping, hitting, etc. Harm to property – a person’s personal belongings (phone, books,

bike, locker, etc)

PHYSICAL AND/OR PSYCHOLOGICAL INTIMIDATION… To be considered bullying, these three things must be present: 1. The intimidation occurs repeatedly 2. It occurs over time 3. It includes having a power imbalance between the bully and

victim. This imbalance may seem easy to spot. We usually think of size… the bigger person bullying a smaller person, but that isnot always the case!

IMBALANCE OF POWER…

For example: A “popular” student bullying a less popular student An athletic student bullying a non-athletic student A student of higher socio-economic status bullying a student of lower socio-

economic status A high achieving student bullying a lower achieving student Etc, etc, etc!

Treat everyone with respect. No one is superior over another.

BULLYING BEHAVIORS… Be aware that things may not be considered “bullying” because

they don’t include all of the components of repeated intimidation, ongoing over time, and an imbalance of power. However, they are still considered bullying behaviors and will not be tolerated!

It may be a one time incident such as mean comments, mocking, teasing, gossiping, sexual harassment, etc.

BULLYING BEHAVIORS…

Here’s an example of bullying behavior: This is a true story about an amazing local student in Ogden. Mrs.

Roane was looking on Facebook one day and came across this post that one of her friends had reposted on Facebook. She was deeply saddened, but also impressed by this young lady’s short story, and asked the girl for permission to use her post with all of you.

BULLYING BEHAVIORS… This was the first week of school for this girl. There is a sad story behind

the scars on her face. Whether there is a reason or not for how she looks, there was absolutely no reason for those girls to make comments about her, and such mean comments. Luckily, she is mature enough to respond the way she did! She turned it around and actually made it about the other girl instead of herself. She is truly a remarkable young lady and an inspiration to others around her…. And I’m lucky to have her as a new friend

How would you feel if someone said something like that to you? Do you think the girl who said that to her got in trouble or had a

consequence? What would you have done if you heard her say this? Did this verbal act have the 3 components in the definition of bullying?

BULLYING BEHAVIORS… By definition, it is not considered bullying (unless it was repeated and

continued to happen over time). However, hopefully you understand why this verbal act is considered bullying behavior:

1. The girl said these words to intentionally hurt or intimidate her. 2. There was likely an imbalance of power. 3. The girl who made the mean comments most likely does not

have scars on her face. 4. Words like this are rude and disrespectful.

We all know it’s not okay to talk to others this way. It was inappropriate and hurtful.

ASK YOURSELF… IS IT WANTED? A good way to consider if you are engaging in bullying behaviors is to ask

yourself… is what I’m doing or saying to a person unwanted by them? Sometimes you may think you are just being “playful” or “just joking” around.

If you are joking in a mean way or crossing the line with inappropriate words or jokes, it’s likely that it is unwanted.

Remember… bullying is a safe school violation. Don’t be part of bullying or bullying behaviors.

This can include: Racial or inappropriate jokes Excluding someoneLaughing at Spreading Rumors Sexual harassment MockingBelittling Swearing or using inappropriate language throwing objects or paper

Doing something to purposely make another uncomfortable

BE CONSCIENTIOUS Remember to practice to THINK before you SPEAK. Words can cut! Choose your words wisely. Be empathetic. You don’t know what others are going through. Learn from stories like this! Take my new friend’s advice: “Be kind to people. It’s not difficult. Sit by people when

they’re alone, give out compliments, smile in the hallways, help peers pick up dropped books, hold the door open. I promise that your life will get better.”