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Bystanders and student intervention

Why don’t bystanders always act?

1.

Students may/ may not know what bullying is

2.

They may fear becoming a victim, now or in the future

3.

They may believe no one will help and the situation would only get worse

4.

Their own friends may pressure them not to do anything to help the victim

5.

They might think that it's none of their business

6.

The Bystander Effect

Why don’t bystanders always act?

7.

They may think their actions will make it worse for the victim

8.

They may not like the victim

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They may think acting is somehow tattling on the bully who may be a friend or part of the “in” crowd

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They may fear their own social status will be compromised by intervening

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They may actually approve of bullying

If you witness bullying occurring:

1.

Determine if the behaviour is truly bullying

2.

If it is, determine your response:

• Intervene when the bullying is occurring and stand up for the victim

• Reach out to the victim later

• Talk to the bully (if you feel safe)

• Ignore the incident and encourage others to move away as well

Remember these tips when you see bullying:

1.

No one deserves to be hurt - physically or mentally

2.

Telling someone is not tattling

3.

Silence may be desired in the classroom, but not about bullying

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