Anyone who has ever been picked on knows what bullying is. We are talking about
mental or physical abuse of someone by another person or group of people.
Bullying can be hitting, shoving, namecalling and verbal abuse (threats).
According to www.stopbullying.gov, bullying can be silent as in social exclusion. It
Victims of bullying are more likely to be anxious, depressed and have physical health problems. People who bully are more likely to have problems with grades and behavior.
When bullies grow up, they are more likely to get into trouble with the law. Even people who witness a bullying act might feel stress and fear.
A Message to Pass on to Children
- If you are bullied, don’t doubt yourself. The person bullying is the problem, not you. Be calm in a bullying situation.
- Bullies like to make people upset and get satisfaction from that. Try to tell your friends. Keeping it bottled up can cause even more stress.
- Finally, you should tell an adult. Tell a teacher, a school counselor and most importantly, tell your parents.
More information about bullying can be found at www.stopbullying.gov.
Officer Larry Jacobs is the Crime Prevention Officer for the Sandy Springs Police Department. He can be reached directly at email@example.com.