Norris School District, Elem Guidance Office

What is bullying?

    Bullying is a pattern of repeated, intentionally cruel behavior.  It differs from normal peer conflict in a number of ways.

    POWER.....Bullies want power and their words and actions reflect that.

    Support......Bullies tend to choose victims who lack friends or support systems.

    Vulnerability......A child who is sensitive and easy to upset is an easy target.

    Intensity and duration......Bullying is something that happens to a person over.

    Intent to harm......Bullies gain satisfaction from hurting and watching the pain
                of their victims.

    For both girls and boys in elementary, the most common form of bullying is teasing.  However,  physical abuse (boys) and social ostracism (girls)  are in second place (The Bullying Prevention Handbook, 1996).  Most researchers believe that bullying involves an imbalance of physical or psychological power, with the bully being stronger (or perceived to be stronger) than the victim.

**Travel with friends--socialize with other students

**Stay away from where bullies hang out

**It is better to avoid a fight by walking away with dignity

**Head for a crowded place

**Talk to adults you trust--parents, teachers, or counselor

**Act confident--practice how you will talk & act when someone bothers you

**Ignore the bully

**Tell the bully to stop (calling me names, taking my hat, etc.--be specific in telling them what you want)

**Participate in activities where you are likely to excel--focus on what you do well