ABUSE MAGAZINE
Being Bullied in Middle School
4
When ridiculed , say nothing , and stare them viciously in the eye like a hungry animal . This may be difficult at first but you won ’ t be giving them the reaction they want . They want you to give in and try to fight them so they can beat you . If you don ’ t fight , they can ’ t win .
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Tell somebody . Never keep quiet .
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Keep an eye out in the halls . These are great bully hideouts because they can strike while you are in a group so they won ’ t be seen . Move among the other kids with head held high , scanning for threats . It may sound a bit paranoid but it comes in very handy .
7
Remember that you do not deserve to be bullied . Nothing you have done and nothing that you are caused you to be bullied . Bullies are people who have low self-esteem and a great need for power - a bad combination . Thousands of kids who are perfectly nice get bullied every single day . But you have to take action against it . Don ’ t start a fight , but don ’ t let the bullying continue .
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Wait until they have thrown the first punch or have hurt or have attempted to hurt you physically . You can then claim it was in self defense and that you just didn ’ t want to get hurt anymore . Never say something like “ He started it !” Use the words “ self defense ” or say “ I feared for my safety ”.
9
Do not do anything physical to the bully . You are the target . They are not the target , because you want to avoid them . Don ’ t do anything to make them mad . If you get upset , and want to slap him / her in the face , walk away with your head held high .
10
If they make fun of something you do or something you wear , do not change your habits . This will only show them they have power over you .
11 insults you or hits you , stop
The first time someone you don ’ t know offends you ,
them before it gets bad . If you stand up for yourself straight away , it sends a message that they should leave you alone . If you let them get away with it by looking away or ignoring it , it may continue and others may join in . Look a bully straight in the eye . Give him a death stare . Bullies often back down with this . Watch your body language . Don ’ t look at the floor . Don ’ t slouch and wish you could disappear , even though you feel that way . Stand strong and tall and face your bully . Bullies usually pick victims who won ’ t stand up to them .
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Tell your school counselor , parents , teacher , and continue to tell them if it does not stop . Schools are breaking the law if they allow bullying to continue within their walls . They must provide you with a safe education .
abusemagazine . org | Idaho Spring / Summer 2014 | 27