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Teen Survival Guide

Home : Teen Survival Guide : Taking charge of your world

Dealing with bullies

Girl looking upset while another girl walks away

Do you know a girl in your school or by your home who does any of these things? If you can think of someone, check the box.

  • She leaves someone out of group activities on purpose.
  • She uses people to get something she wants, like making friends with someone who is smart just so she can do her homework for her.
  • She uses the Internet, instant messenger, and/or email to embarrass, threaten, or scare others.
  • She gossips and spreads rumors.
  • She makes fun of others for being different.
  • She pressures others to do things they don't want to do.

Did more than one girl cross your mind? Maybe you even thought of yourself? Well, all of these actions are forms of bullying. Bullying is when one person or a group of people hurts someone else over and over. For young women, bullying is often more hurting someone's feelings than physical hurting. If someone does hit you, though, it is best to walk away. You don't want to get in trouble or get hurt worse by fighting back.

Activity:

I,_______________________, pledge not to bully and to help others who are bullied.

______________________________
(sign here)

______________________________
(date)

What can you do if you are being bullied?

  • Tell an adult.
  • Stand up for yourself if it feels safe.
  • Tell the bully to stop. Then calmly walk away.
  • Do not fight back!
  • Don't blame yourself.
  • Make new friends and get involved in activities.
  • Be strong and believe in yourself.

Remember, it's okay if you don't like everyone you meet. But, it is important to be nice to everyone you meet.

To: girlshealth.gov
From: Amy (age 11), Memphis, Tennessee

I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but I don't want to include just anyone in my circle of friends. Is that bullying?

Having a close group of friends, or clique, is not bad. But, leaving out others from your group on purpose IS bullying. Be willing to get to know other girls, even if you think you know about them already. And, let other girls get to know you. Some girls won't have things in common with your friends, but they will figure this out for themselves and try to find people who are more like them. But, by being okay with a bigger circle of friends, you won't miss out on meeting a really cool girl.

 

Content last updated February 12, 2008

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women's Health.

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