“Strong people stand up for themselves.But the strongest people stand up for others…
A repetitive aggression or harassment directed at victims who have less power than bullies.Bullying includes bystander who observe bullying and can assume a range of roles that include ‘reinforcers’, ‘outsiders’ and defenders.The behaviours of bystander can have important effects in their peers.Students with high empathy have been found to be more likely to take the defender role.A bystander has the potential to make a positive difference in a bullying situation,especially for youth who are bullied are defended and supported by their peers,they become less anxious and depressed.Adults in schools can also be a role models rewarded positive social behaviour and set the tone for healthy social relationships.
During a bullying incident, if there is only one witness,that one person is likely to help the victim but in a group of three or more people,none of them feels like it is their responsibility to take action.There are some emotions suffered by bystanders when they encounter a bullied victim.Due to such emotions some do not involve with the problems.Fear is the reason why bystander fail to do when they witness bullying.After the bullying incident is over,many bystanders are weighed down with guilt.Bystanders can also develop anxiety about bullying.Watching another person suffer is never easy.But at the same time it can be difficult to know what to do.Very often bystanders don’t know what to do.They are afraid of retaliation or fear.By empowering your teen to help, instead of standing by and watch,you are helping put an end to the bullying.If you are not part of the solution,you are part of the problem.Bullying needs to be stopped.
If you see something,say something.Do not be a bystander!