The Target

If you are getting bullied, you might not tell anyone because you:

• Don’t recognize it as bullying
• Are embarrassed
• Don’t want to appear weak
• Fear retaliation
• Don’t know how to talk about it (or with whom)
• Don’t think anyone can help

While this is understandable, you should know that bullying is never acceptable. It needs to be brought to light so it can be stopped. So tell a trusted friend or adult. Otherwise, the bullying is likely to continue – and you and others will continue to be impacted by its devastating effects.

When faced with demands from bullies, don’t give in – that only rewards the bully and makes him or her want to continue the bullying.

And don’t retaliate – that may provoke the bully and lead to violence.

Instead, try to respond with self-confidence and assertiveness. YOU have the power to stop the bullying.

Here are some specific ways that will help you Stand Strong in the face of bullying:

• Take a deep breath and let the air out slowly
• Sit or stand tall, head up
• Keep your hands at your sides rather than on your hips or folded across your chest
• Have a relaxed and purposeful expression, not angry or laughing
• Maintain eye contact
• Speak with a calm voice, loud enough to be heard clearly
• Use non-provocative words and a confident tone of voice
• Avoid name-calling or making threats
• Avoid finger pointing or other threatening gestures
• Reply briefly and directly