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One incident of bullying occurs every seven minutes, says a study done by Craig and Peplers. Being targeted by bullies, in schools, is a problem that has existed for decades. But how can you resist it without becoming a greater target?

Bullying occurs primarily in grade schools, but it can continue to high school and beyond. A new study from April 2007, revealed some startling facts about the prevalence of bullying through an anonymous query that students filled out for the study.

In this new study, 90% of the students in the three schools studied said that they had been bullied. 59% answered that they had bullied someone either physically or verbally. This study was published in the Journal of Development and Behavioral Pediatrics.

An older study from the mid 1990s showed only 11% to 12% responded that they had been bullied. This study also touched upon teachers bullying students as defined in making openly degrading remarks about students.

Bullying comes in physical, verbal or in exclusion from activities. The target sometimes feels guilty and often they tell no one of the incidents. The home life of the bully is most likely to be one of little empathy and warmth. He may, himself, be the victim of psychological bullying. When he is the one doing the bullying, he becomes the one who is empowered and in control.

Resisting the bully is a problem that needs addressing by students and teachers alike. A code of conduct should be in place that has costs or consequences for bullying and other negative behaviors.

Teens can reduce their chance for being bullied by building a network of support. This can be difficult for loners, but it is worth the effort to reach out to some other teens for friendship and support. There is strength in numbers.

The bully would rather target the loner because it's easier. Since the loner has no social support, there is less risk of being exposed to teachers or other adults.

Teens should tell an adult when they're being bullied. Staying silent gives power to the bully and allows him to continue this negative behavior. Sometimes it goes to far and a student commits suicide because of the pain and humiliation he receives at the hand of a bully.

Education and awareness in the schools can offer help to both the bully by allowing his behavior to cost him. It can help both the victim and the bully become aware and understand boundaries in relationships.

Build a network of support from family and friends and do not remain silent.

Sources:
http://webMD.co m
http://stopbullyingnow.com

Learn more about this author, Mona Gallagher.
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