Bullying is not OK
Bullying is a form of intimidation where a person is repeatedly treated in a cruel, aggressive or negative way. Bullies can target both adults and young people and usually see their victims as weaker than themselves.
Bullying can appear in many different forms, not just the stereotype of someone being pushed around in the playground. Bullying can also occur much more quietly through other means like social media or text messaging.
Some signs of bullying are:
- Mean gossip
- Negative comments on social media or text messages (Cyberbullying)
- Being purposely left out of groups
- Being laughed at or made fun of
- Being pushed, kicked or punched
Bullying can make the victim feel hurt, confused, nervous, anxious and worried. Interestingly, most bullies are cowards as they can’t see that their actions are wrong and purposely hurting another person to make themselves feel good, is cowardly.
Bullying is NEVER ok or cool. Treating other people with respect is cool and is something to be admired.
Useful Links
Netsafe Cyberbullying
Information and advice about cyberbullying for young people, parents and teachers.
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Kidsline
Telephone counselling service for all kids up to 14 years of age. Kidsline operates from 4pm to 6pm Monday through to Friday. When kids ring they will speak to a Kidsline buddy, a specially trained teenage telephone counsellor.
P 0800 543 754
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Youthline
Youthline was established to ensure young people know where to get help and can access support when they need it.
Helpline 0800 376 633
Free Text 234
E talk@youthline.co.nz
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Lifeline
Lifeline’s telephone counselling service provides 24 hour a day, 7 day a week counselling and support. Calls are confidential and free and you will speak to a trained Lifeline counsellor.
P 0800 543 354 (outside Auckland)
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