Anti-bullying at the lyceum

Anyone can be picked on for many reasons: red hair, freckles, being too tall or too short, body weight, the shape of the head, nose, eyes or mouth, nationality, physical limitations. School achievements, family income and even personality traits can become a reason. A victim may also be someone who finds it hard to communicate with peers, who is withdrawn or, conversely, provocative.

• They think it is funny and no big deal. Children who bully do not worry much about the feelings of those they hurt.
• They think adults will not pay attention.
• They think someone deserves such treatment — or they reassure themselves that way.
• They think such behaviour is normal.
• They have been bullied themselves.
• They want to feel power and influence, to gain attention and leadership in the group.
• Sometimes it comes from loneliness and insecurity.

There is no universal or quick solution, but there are five steps that are certainly worth taking.

• Never keep it a secret. Decide whom you trust and can tell: parents or other relatives, a friend, a teacher, a psychologist, a coach, or even your parents’ friends.
• Do not be afraid to ask for help — you need it.
• Stop blaming yourself or justifying others’ actions. No one has the right to violate your boundaries, force you to do anything, humiliate or insult you.
• If any dangerous situation occurs, ask the school administration, teachers, older students or parents for help.
• Talk to the school psychologist to rebuild your confidence and understand what to do next.

Bullying is unwanted aggressive behaviour among school-age children that leads to the harassment of a child by another child or a group in order to humiliate, intimidate and demonstrate power.

• Understand: bullying is your actions, not your personality. You can control them and change them for the better.
• Adults really do care about what is happening — even if it seems otherwise.
• Bullying causes physical and emotional pain to another person. Think: is that really what you want?
• Some things may seem funny and harmless, yet they can hurt another person.
• Cross bullying out of your life!

Children who are bullied start inventing excuses not to go to school and pretend to be ill. They become withdrawn, lose their zest for life and stop studying.

• You can be the one who finally starts talking about it.
• If you see bullying, immediately call for help from adults nearby.
• If you are invited to join in or to watch, refuse firmly.
• If a friend tells you they are being bullied, be sure to talk with them — they need your support. Advise them to seek help from adults you both trust.