How to intervene in a bullying situation
What should young people do if they witness an act of bullying, either in person or online? Here are suggestions:
* Ask yourself, “Is it my job to help?” Think about how you might feel if the bullying was happening to you.
* Don’t just stand there . . . say something.
* Kids who bully may think they’re being funny or “cool.” If you feel safe, tell the person to stop the bullying behavior. Say you don’t like it, and it isn’t funny.
* Don’t be just a bystander. If other students laugh or join in, let them know they’re not helping.
* Don’t bully back! It won’t help and could make things worse.
* If you don’t feel safe confronting the bully, say something kind to the child who was bullied. Be a friend.
* Tell an adult—a teacher, school psychologist, school counselor, school nurse or principal. Take a friend along if you need help. If you’re afraid of retaliation, ask the adult at school to help keep you safe after telling.
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