6 of 15

Write now Article Tools

Bullies are part of life. Knowledge and education is the best way to deal with and spot a bully. Bullies are basically overbearing kids whose main focus is normally on weaker, smaller children. They do it to make themselves feel better, stronger and more powerful. Bullies habitually badger and intimidate one target. A bully needs to be taken down very early in life so they don't gain the confidence to continue through their whole school career and into adulthood.

Bullies can become very dangerous and if they are not stopped, the consequences of their actions not being addressed can be deadly. People of authority should be aware of the characteristics that bullies posses. Some characteristics are, but are not limited to: extroverted, disagreeable, bigger, physically stronger, angry, reasonably popular, and secure, possess a need to control, and occasionally have a positive view of themselves. A child who possesses those characteristics should be closely watched. Parent involvement is so very important when there starts to be a problem.

The best way to deal with a bully is often debated and discussed. The first thing that a child should know is not to be afraid of telling an adult. Communication with children is so vitally important these days and helps build confidence to speak up when a situation like a bully in their school arises. Children should not be afraid to "tell" on another child when they feel threatened, ostracized, picked on, or singled out. Children should also know that it is okay to report if they see behavior that they are uncomfortable with, or know is wrong, directed at another child There is a difference between a child who simply feels left out of something one day and a child that is constantly being targeted.

Several more ways to deal with a bully at school is to walk away, distance themselves, and ignore the bully. Although easier said than done, eventually the bully will move on. However, having a bully "move" on does not solve anything and although it takes the pressure off one child, the bully probably is now focused on another. Personally I believe that there is strength in numbers and if the child can rally a few others around him/her and stand up to the bully as a group. A child that can hold their shoulders back will find great rewards in saying "No!", but find it much easier to do so if they have people behind them to "get their back".

Overall, open communication, observant adults and education within the school is the best way to help a children gain power over bullies and stop the bullying before it results in harm to innocent children.

Learn more about this author, Tracy H-B.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to deal with a bully at school?
We want to hear your view. Write now!