It is broadly defined as any "unwanted, aggressive behavior" that "involves a real or perceived power imbalance" and is often a behavior that is repeated over time.It is one of the most notable challenges facing young people today and as a result has become an issue of serious discussion among teachers, parents, and community members.If you have a bullied friend, look over the recommendations for ways to solve the problem.
Step 1: Find people who can help.
Bullies push people because they think they have the power.They do not.Look for people who are supposed to be in charge.They have a responsibility to stop bully and use it.
Step 2: Try another adult if the first one is not helpful.
It has become hard to ignore the issue of bullied people in recent years.Adults used to think that young people should solve the problem on their own or be told to ignore the bully.Increased sensitivity to the issue has made those statements out of place.The National Institute of Health, a federal agency, and the American Academy of Pediatrics both have websites dedicated to anti-bully initiatives.Some adults may not have gotten the message, but more and more people understand that it can't be done anymore.
Step 3: Talk to your parents.
It's unfortunate that some adults won't listen, but they should at least listen to their parents.School officials and others who work with young people sometimes don't respect the people they supervise, but they are usually able to accept the input of parents, who give them authority.At least your parents can start thinking of ways to get you out of that environment if they refuse to deal with the situation.They can't begin this process unless you talk to them.
Step 4: Be positive.
Bullies target people who appear vulnerable or cautious.If necessary, fake confidence.After a while, you may discover that you really are who you say you are.When a bully looks at you, don't look away.Accept that they are there, and move on to what you really want to do.They may feel that they have some power over you if you look frightened or expect trouble.
Step 5: Stand up to the bully.
This does not mean threatening to harm them.You can tell the bully that you don't fear them.It is necessary, but it is not easy.If you refuse to be treated as a victim,bullies are less likely to target you.
Step 6: The circle of friends should be expanded.
Bullies target isolated people.They are less likely to focus on you if you have a lot of friends.There are two main reasons for this.If the bully likes to physically threaten you, you should be associated with other people who are on your side.Those who like to insult others will be meaningless to those who actually know and appreciate you.
Step 7: You are not defined by what the bully says or does.
The actions of others do not determine your significance.The things that are important to you should not be affected by the fact that you are in contact with a bully.
Step 8: Understand the intent of the bully.
The stereotype of the playground bully is not always accurate.Cyberbully is not always meant to make the bully seem powerful.While spreading rumors or attempting to humiliate others online may feel powerful, their goal is more often to do damage to someone's reputation.They don't limit the audience to people who know the bully or the target of their actions.It is difficult to stop and it is hard to predict.
Step 9: Talk to your parents.
They need to know if you are being threatened or harassed.If you want to get rid of the bully, there are a number of steps you need to take, and you should inform them early on.
Step 10: You should consider your options.
There are options that are less available for use in traditional cases of bullied people, because of the complexity of cyberbullying.Unless there is evidence that the person was using school property to post online, school officials may not have the authority to intervene.Service providers and internet companies may intervene if you contact them.You may be able to block them on certain websites.Some legal options are available to you and your family.Evidence of harassment or threats can be found on the web.As a result of new state and federal laws, threats of violence posted online can result in lengthy jail sentences.If this seems like an extreme solution, keep in mind that you have options and can change the situation.
Step 11: Confront the bully.
It's part of the standard program for dealing with traditional bully, but it may be the fastest way to end it.Don't make it seem like you are intimidated by the cyberbully.You will ignore their posts and not make any comments about them.
Step 12: Get away from the bully.
This tactic was recommended for use against bullies, but it often didn't work.It is difficult to ignore someone in front of you, but it may be easier to do online.If all else fails, you can close your internet accounts.If those online connections are important to you, you may want to start new accounts to replace them, but take steps to discourage the bully from tracking you down again.It is possible to find alternate sites to keep in touch with friends.Diaspora and Frendica are two of the many alternative social networking sites.Many people you know are already on these networks.