What to do when bullying occurs

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Pinellas County Schools Definition

Bullying can be defined as being exposed, REPEATEDLY and over time, to negative actions on the part of one or more students (Olweus, 1993).

Bullying “repeatedly” means someone bullies the same individual over and over.

One-sided means that one person has started the situation and the other did not help start it and wants it to stop. This is different from a conflict where both people are involved in starting and continuing the situation.

There is always a power differential between the bully and the victim that is acquired through physical size, strength or status.

There is intent to harm; the child who is bullied is put in the position of oppression by the child who bullies.

Finally, bullying is a repeated rather than singular event.

Direct bullying (face-to-face) involves an open attack to a person or property.Ex. Pushing someone into a locker or

destroying homework Indirect bullying (behind the back) is

more subtle and covert.Social isolation or exclusion or gossiping

Per Pinellas County SchoolsVerbal bullying

Taunting, teasing, name-calling, extortion, and threats.

Physical bullying Harm to a person or property

Sexual harassment Any inappropriate sexual comment, gesture, or

behavior including offensive jokes, pictures, and rumors that offend others.

Cyber bullying Using the internet or other digital

communication devices to send or post harmful or cruel text or images.

The Bullied:Tell your child it’s not their fault

Example- “You don’t deserve to be treated this way”

Stay in control. Don’t retaliate by fighting or bullying back because it usually makes things worse.

If they feel safe and confident, they should tell the bully/bullies to stop.

Get support from a trusted adult. Guidance counselor, teacher, parent, office

clerk, prevention specialist (me), SRO, principal, assistant principal, ANYBODY!

Bullying is NOT a normal part of growing up!

It is important to distinguish between what is normal behavior and what is bullying.Having a different point of view is normal

There is an equal balance of power between those involved

Teasing is normal When everyone involved is having fun and there

is an equal balance of power.

They vary depending on the severity of the situation.

Some consequences for the student doing the bullying:Conference with parent, student, guidance

counselor and/or assistant principal Put plans in place for student and to make sure

they understand their actions and the consequences.

Change of class scheduleReferral

Now a few words from our 6th grade counselor, Ms. Scharmer