November 10, 2024 • 20 mins
In this episode, I’m tackling a topic that’s incredibly close to my heart: "Breaking the Cycle: A Behavior-Based Approach to Bullying Prevention." Growing up, I experienced just a small amount of bullying—so few incidents I could probably count them on one hand—but the impact was profound. It shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until later. For some kids, though, this isn’t a rare occurrence; it’s a daily struggle. Their courage to show up every day is remarkable.
Addressing bullying requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach. This episode dives into strategies that cover all fronts: supporting those being bullied, challenging those who bully, empowering bystanders, and equipping educators with practical tools to create safer environments. And as I wrapped up this content, I realized these insights don’t just apply to kids—they’re incredibly relevant for adults facing challenges in the workplace, too.
I’ve made this content available across different platforms because it needs to be heard and shared. You can find this episode in The Behavioral Toolbox Newsletter and on my YouTube Channel as well. Whether you’re using it to support a student, a classroom, a school assembly, or even distributing it across an entire district, the message remains the same—together, we can break the cycle.
🎧 Listen, share, and be part of the change!
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey everyone, I'm Dr Paul Gavone.
Most people know me as Dr Paulyor Pauly Gloves.
I'm a former Golden Glovesheavyweight champion of Florida
and I've spent years traininglocal, state, national and even
world champions.
But here's something you mightnot know A lot of those
champions, including me, werebullied as kids.
(00:22):
Bullying can happen to anyonephysically, verbally or even
online.
Real confidence doesn't comefrom tearing others down.
It comes from lifting people upand being secure in who you are
.
Over the years, I've learnedsome powerful lessons from
boxing and mixed martial artsthat go beyond the physical
(00:44):
training.
When you step onto the mats orinto the ring, there's a code, a
foundation of mutual respectthat guides every interaction.
Bullying isn't tolerated.
Here's why People are taught torespect themselves and each
other.
Individuals learn to beassertive, to stand tall and
(01:05):
protect themselves, not byhurting others, but by becoming
stronger and more confident.
Bullies, when placed in thisenvironment, often change.
They learn discipline, empathyand how to be better versions of
themselves.
Today I want to talk to fourgroups those being bullied,
those doing the bullying, peersand bystanders, and the
(01:29):
educators who see it happeningin schools.
Everyone here has a role toplay and together we can make
things better.
First, I want to speak to thoseof you who are being bullied.
I see you, I hear you and Iknow it hurts.
The pain, the fear, the feelingof being isolated.
(01:51):
That's something anyone shouldhave to experience.
But let me make one thingcrystal clear being bullied is
not your fault.
It doesn't say anything at allabout your worth or who you are
as a person.
It says far more about thosewho choose to hurt others.
You are stronger than yourealize.
(02:12):
The fact that you're stillstanding, still showing up
despite what you've been through, shows incredible courage.
Here's what you can do and whyit matters.
Number one find safe people andplaces.
Seek out people you trust ateacher, a counselor, a coach, a
(02:34):
family member, a friend.
Share what's happening.
Why?
Because you don't have to gothrough this alone.
There are people who caredeeply and want to support you.
Speaking up isn't a sign ofweakness.
It's a sign of strength andself-respect.
And no, it's not snitching.
Asking for help is standing upfor yourself and your right to
(02:57):
be treated with respect.
Number two document everything.
Keep records of what'shappening, whether it's verbal,
physical or online bullying.
Save text, take screenshots,write down incidents, dates and
details.
Why?
Because when you documentwhat's happening.
(03:18):
You're protecting yourself.
You're creating evidence thatcan help trusted adults step in
and make things right.
Number three practice assertivecommunication.
When safe, stand tall, look thebully in the eye and use a firm
voice to express how you feel.
Statements like I don'tappreciate being treated this
(03:41):
way show that you respectyourself.
Why, well, bullies often seekto control others through fear
or intimidation.
Responding calmly andassertively can take away some
of their power.
Research shows thatassertiveness can also reduce
the frequency of bullying, asbullies look for easier targets.
(04:07):
Number four surround yourselfwith supportive people.
Find people who uplift you,whether it's through sports
clubs, music, art or sharedinterests.
Build connections, why.
Isolation makes bullying feelmore intense.
When you have a circle ofsupportive friends, it's harder
for bullies to single you out,and you'll find strength in
(04:29):
those connections.
Research has shown that evenone trusted peer or friend can
significantly reduce thenegative impact of bullying.
Number five take care of yourwell-being.
Focus on what brings you joyand strength.
Exercise, practice hobbies,learn new skills and care for
(04:51):
yourself physically andemotionally.
Why Building resilience andfinding activities that make you
feel good remind you that lifeis more than pain caused by
others.
You are worth investing inyourself.
Studies show that engaging inpositive activities can boost
self-esteem and build resilience.
(05:12):
Number six know that you are notalone.
You might feel like you're theonly one facing this, but there
are so many people, both peersand adults, who want to help.
You don't have to hide yourpain or carry it by yourself.
Reaching out and sharing whatyou're experiencing can lighten
the burden and open the door forchange.
(05:34):
Remember, many others have gonethrough this and come out
stronger.
Finally, number seven rememberthis doesn't define you.
The hurtful words, the cruelactions.
They don't determine who youare.
You are strong, resilient andcapable of so much more than
(05:54):
what you are going through rightnow.
The way others treat you saysnothing about your worth.
Keep going.
You are so much more than theirwords, actions or threats.
You matter.
Your feelings, your experiencesand your safety matters.
There are people who caredeeply about your well-being.
(06:16):
Never forget that.
Keep pushing forward, keepseeking support and know that
you are worthy of respect andkindness, always.
Now let me talk to those of youwho are bullying others.
I'm not here to make you feelguilty.
I'm here to challenge you, tounderstand what's really going
(06:36):
on and why it matters.
You see, bullying doesn't justhurt in the moment.
It can leave lasting scars thatgo far beyond today.
It can impact how someone seesthemselves, how they trust
others, and even how they treattheir own children.
Years from now, the effects ofbullying can ripple out,
(06:58):
touching lives for years, evenlifetimes.
Think about this what if itwere your mom, dad, sister,
brother, friend or someone youdeeply care about being bullied?
How would that make you feel?
Would you want them to carrythat pain?
The way we treat others createsripples.
You have the power to decidewhat kind of ripple you create
(07:22):
One that brings more pain or onethat helps lift others up?
Be the person who makes apositive impact, not one that
spreads hurt.
Here's some things to thinkabout.
Number one self-reflectionmatters.
Ask yourself why are you doingthis?
Are you trying to feel powerful?
(07:43):
Are you angry, hurt, or maybejust looking for attention?
Here's the thing.
Bullying might give you a quicksense of control, but it
doesn't fix what's really goingon inside.
It might distract you from yourown struggles for a moment, but
it doesn't make them go away.
Here's an outcome check.
What are you actually gettingfrom this?
(08:05):
Are you gaining the attentionyou want, or are people
distancing themselves from you?
Are you taking things fromothers, or is it creating more
enemies than respect?
Are you escaping being bulliedyourself by hurting someone else
?
Think about it.
These actions might seem like away to gain power or safety,
but in the end, they often leaveyou more isolated,
(08:28):
misunderstood and distrusted.
Number two build empathy.
Take a moment and imagine whatit would be like to be in the
shoes of the person you'rebullying.
Think about how it would feelto face those words or actions
every day.
Why does this matter?
Because understanding the painyou're causing doesn't make you
(08:51):
weak.
It makes you human.
Empathy is a powerful tool thatcan help you connect with
others and find better ways toexpress your emotions.
Number three seek real support.
If you're dealing with anger,frustration, fear or insecurity,
talk to someone a counselor, ateacher or anyone you trust.
(09:14):
Why?
Because facing what's reallybothering you takes guts and it
can change your life for thebetter.
It means you're brave enough towant something more for
yourself and willing to put inthe work to get there.
Many who bully do so as aresponse to their own pain.
There's help to break thatcycle.
(09:37):
Number four understand thelong-term impact.
The habits you're building nowhurting others to feel powerful.
Using aggression to solveproblems can follow you into
adulthood.
These behaviors can lead tobroken relationships, trouble at
work and a reputation that'shard to shake, but it doesn't
have to be this way.
(09:57):
You have the power to changeand build a future you can be
proud of.
And finally, number five,channel your energy positively.
Instead of tearing others down,put your energy into building
yourself up.
Focus on a sport, an art form,music or a skill that makes you
(10:18):
feel strong and proud.
Why?
Because real confidence andrespect come from achieving
something on your own, not frommaking others feel small.
Research shows that engaging inpositive, structured activities
can reduce aggressive behaviorsand increase self-esteem.
You have a choice.
You don't have to stay stuck inbehaviors that hurt others and
(10:40):
ultimately hurt yourself.
Be better.
Choose change, and I believeyou can become the person you
truly want to be.
Now I want to talk to all ofyou who see bullying happening
the bystanders, the friends, theclassmates who might feel like
it's none of your business.
But here's the truth you havemore power than you realize.
(11:03):
The way you respond when yousee bullying can either fuel it
or stop it in its tracks.
Bullies often thrive onattention, approval or the
silence of those around them.
When no one steps in, it sendsa message that their behavior is
acceptable or even entertaining.
But you can change that.
(11:24):
Here's what you need to knowand what you can do.
Number one understand whybullies do it.
Bullies often act out of theirown pain, insecurity, need for
power or desire for attention.
This doesn't make theirbehavior okay, but it helps
explain why they do it.
By understanding theirmotivations, you can see that
(11:44):
their behavior is often areflection of their struggles,
not a sign of strength.
Number two don't be a silentbystander.
If you see bullying happening,don't look the other way.
Silence can be taken asapproval.
Instead, you can speak up ifit's safe to do so.
A simple hey, that's not cool,or leave them alone can go a
(12:05):
long way.
Why?
Because bullies often rely onthe belief that no one will
challenge them.
When even one person stands up,it can shift the balance of
power.
Number three offer support tothe target.
After a bullying incident,reach out to the person who was
targeted.
Let them know they're not alone.
(12:26):
A kind word, sitting with themat lunch or simply asking if
they're okay can make a hugedifference.
Why Bullying thrives onisolation.
Your support shows the personbeing bullied that they have
allies, which can reduce theemotional impact of the bullying
.
4.
(12:46):
Avoid giving bullies theattention they want.
Many bullies act out to gain anaudience or to feel powerful.
Laughing along, spreadinggossip or even just watching can
reinforce their behavior.
Instead, walk away, change thesubject or shift attention to
something positive.
Why, without an audience,bullying loses its power.
(13:12):
Number five report what you see.
If the situation feels toorisky to intervene directly, go
to a trusted adult a teacher,counselor or administrator and
let them know what's happening.
Reporting isn't about gettingsomeone in trouble.
It's about preventing harm andmaking your school a safer place
(13:32):
.
Why Adults can step in andaddress the situation in ways
that may be harder for peers.
Number six be a role model.
Treat everyone with respect andkindness, even those who might
be different from you.
Create an environment wherebullying behavior doesn't fit in
(13:54):
.
When you model positivebehavior, others are more likely
to follow.
Why Peer influence is powerful.
When you set a positive example, you encourage others to do the
same.
And finally, number seven formallies and stand together.
If you see bullying happeningregularly, band together with
(14:16):
other peers to show that itwon't be tolerated.
There is strength in numbers.
When a group stands up againstbullying, it sends a clear
message that it has no place inyour school.
Remember, you have the power toincrease or decrease bullying
through your reactions.
By standing up, speaking outand offering support, you can be
(14:38):
a part of the solution.
Up, speaking out and offeringsupport, you can be a part of
the solution.
Together, we can create aculture where respect, kindness
and empathy are the norm andwhere bullying has no place to
hide.
You might think one person can'tmake a difference, but you
absolutely can.
Your actions matter.
Be the change, be the supportsomeone needs, be the reason
(15:00):
bullying stops.
And finally, to all theeducators out there, first off,
thank you so much for what youdo.
You are on the front lines andyour influence matters more than
you know.
When it comes to bullying, yourrole is critical.
I know you're busy, overwhelmedand managing countless
(15:25):
responsibilities.
It can be tempting to turn ablind eye to subtle behaviors
eye rolls, whispered insults,quiet exclusion because they
seem small compared to biggerissues, but these small actions
are often the roots of somethingmuch larger and more harmful.
You need to be vigilant, createand enforce a zero tolerance
(15:49):
policy for all forms of bullying, no matter how subtle.
Think about it.
If it were your own childfacing these behaviors, would
you want someone to step in?
Defaulting to kids will be kids.
When you see these acts setsthe stage for bullying to grow
and thrive, don't tolerate it.
(16:09):
Intervene, speak up and make itclear that respect is not
optional.
It's the standard.
Show every student that you'rehere to protect and support them
and that your school is a placewhere everyone belongs.
So here's some things to thinkabout.
Number one set clearexpectations and consequences.
(16:30):
Make sure students know thatbullying is unacceptable and lay
out clear, consistentconsequences.
Why Predictable rules andaccountability help create a
culture of respect and safety.
Number two model respectfulbehavior.
Treat students, colleagues andparents with respect.
Why Kids learn from what theysee.
(16:52):
When they see adultsdemonstrating respect, it
becomes the norm.
Research shows that modelingpositive behaviors can
significantly impact schoolculture.
Number three interveneimmediately when you see
bullying.
Step in quickly with calm,clear communication.
Why Addressing it on the spotsends a strong message that
(17:16):
bullying isn't tolerated and canstop patterns of behavior.
Number four create safereporting systems.
Make it easy for students toreport bullying, whether it's in
person or online.
Use anonymous reporting tools,open door policies and regular
check-ins.
Why Students need to knowthey'll be heard and supported
(17:40):
without fear of judgment.
Number five reinforce positivebehaviors.
Catch students being kind,inclusive or helpful and
acknowledge it.
Why Reinforcing positivebehaviors makes them more likely
to continue.
Build a culture where respectand kindness are valued and
(18:02):
rewarded.
Number six address onlinebullying.
Teach responsible onlinebehavior and set up systems for
reporting and managingcyberbullying.
Why Online bullying can be justas harmful, if not more, but
proactive measures can limit itsimpact.
And finally, number seven teachconflict resolution skills.
(18:26):
Offer tools for students tomanage conflicts without
aggression.
Use role-playing workshops andteach practical de-escalation
techniques.
Why Giving students the skillsto resolve conflicts reduces
incidents and empowers them.
So let me leave you with this.
Bullying doesn't have to defineanyone's story.
(18:47):
To those being bullied standstrong and know you're not alone
.
To those doing the bullying youcan change and you have the
power to be better.
To everyone else your actionsshape the school environment.
Let's choose to support, tostand up and create a world
where everyone feels safe, seenand respected.
(19:11):
Thank you, let's step uptogether and make the change we
want to see.
Hey everyone, I'm Dr Paul Gavone.
Most people know me as Dr Paulyor Pauly Gloves.
I'm a former Golden Glovesheavyweight champion of Florida
and I've spent years traininglocal, state, national and even
world champions.
But here's something you mightnot know A lot of those
champions, including me, werebullied as kids.
(00:22):
Bullying can happen to anyonephysically, verbally or even
online.
Real confidence doesn't comefrom tearing others down.
It comes from lifting people upand being secure in who you are
.
Over the years, I've learnedsome powerful lessons from
boxing and mixed martial artsthat go beyond the physical
(00:44):
training.
When you step onto the mats orinto the ring, there's a code, a
foundation of mutual respectthat guides every interaction.
Bullying isn't tolerated.
Here's why People are taught torespect themselves and each
other.
Individuals learn to beassertive, to stand tall and
(01:05):
protect themselves, not byhurting others, but by becoming
stronger and more confident.
Bullies, when placed in thisenvironment, often change.
They learn discipline, empathyand how to be better versions of
themselves.
Today I want to talk to fourgroups those being bullied,
those doing the bullying, peersand bystanders, and the
(01:29):
educators who see it happeningin schools.
Everyone here has a role toplay and together we can make
things better.
First, I want to speak to thoseof you who are being bullied.
I see you, I hear you and Iknow it hurts.
The pain, the fear, the feelingof being isolated.
(01:51):
That's something anyone shouldhave to experience.
But let me make one thingcrystal clear being bullied is
not your fault.
It doesn't say anything at allabout your worth or who you are
as a person.
It says far more about thosewho choose to hurt others.
You are stronger than yourealize.
(02:12):
The fact that you're stillstanding, still showing up
despite what you've been through, shows incredible courage.
Here's what you can do and whyit matters.
Number one find safe people andplaces.
Seek out people you trust ateacher, a counselor, a coach, a
(02:34):
family member, a friend.
Share what's happening.
Why?
Because you don't have to gothrough this alone.
There are people who caredeeply and want to support you.
Speaking up isn't a sign ofweakness.
It's a sign of strength andself-respect.
And no, it's not snitching.
Asking for help is standing upfor yourself and your right to
(02:57):
be treated with respect.
Number two document everything.
Keep records of what'shappening, whether it's verbal,
physical or online bullying.
Save text, take screenshots,write down incidents, dates and
details.
Why?
Because when you documentwhat's happening.
(03:18):
You're protecting yourself.
You're creating evidence thatcan help trusted adults step in
and make things right.
Number three practice assertivecommunication.
When safe, stand tall, look thebully in the eye and use a firm
voice to express how you feel.
Statements like I don'tappreciate being treated this
(03:41):
way show that you respectyourself.
Why, well, bullies often seekto control others through fear
or intimidation.
Responding calmly andassertively can take away some
of their power.
Research shows thatassertiveness can also reduce
the frequency of bullying, asbullies look for easier targets.
(04:07):
Number four surround yourselfwith supportive people.
Find people who uplift you,whether it's through sports
clubs, music, art or sharedinterests.
Build connections, why.
Isolation makes bullying feelmore intense.
When you have a circle ofsupportive friends, it's harder
for bullies to single you out,and you'll find strength in
(04:29):
those connections.
Research has shown that evenone trusted peer or friend can
significantly reduce thenegative impact of bullying.
Number five take care of yourwell-being.
Focus on what brings you joyand strength.
Exercise, practice hobbies,learn new skills and care for
(04:51):
yourself physically andemotionally.
Why Building resilience andfinding activities that make you
feel good remind you that lifeis more than pain caused by
others.
You are worth investing inyourself.
Studies show that engaging inpositive activities can boost
self-esteem and build resilience.
(05:12):
Number six know that you are notalone.
You might feel like you're theonly one facing this, but there
are so many people, both peersand adults, who want to help.
You don't have to hide yourpain or carry it by yourself.
Reaching out and sharing whatyou're experiencing can lighten
the burden and open the door forchange.
(05:34):
Remember, many others have gonethrough this and come out
stronger.
Finally, number seven rememberthis doesn't define you.
The hurtful words, the cruelactions.
They don't determine who youare.
You are strong, resilient andcapable of so much more than
(05:54):
what you are going through rightnow.
The way others treat you saysnothing about your worth.
Keep going.
You are so much more than theirwords, actions or threats.
You matter.
Your feelings, your experiencesand your safety matters.
There are people who caredeeply about your well-being.
(06:16):
Never forget that.
Keep pushing forward, keepseeking support and know that
you are worthy of respect andkindness, always.
Now let me talk to those of youwho are bullying others.
I'm not here to make you feelguilty.
I'm here to challenge you, tounderstand what's really going
(06:36):
on and why it matters.
You see, bullying doesn't justhurt in the moment.
It can leave lasting scars thatgo far beyond today.
It can impact how someone seesthemselves, how they trust
others, and even how they treattheir own children.
Years from now, the effects ofbullying can ripple out,
(06:58):
touching lives for years, evenlifetimes.
Think about this what if itwere your mom, dad, sister,
brother, friend or someone youdeeply care about being bullied?
How would that make you feel?
Would you want them to carrythat pain?
The way we treat others createsripples.
You have the power to decidewhat kind of ripple you create
(07:22):
One that brings more pain or onethat helps lift others up?
Be the person who makes apositive impact, not one that
spreads hurt.
Here's some things to thinkabout.
Number one self-reflectionmatters.
Ask yourself why are you doingthis?
Are you trying to feel powerful?
(07:43):
Are you angry, hurt, or maybejust looking for attention?
Here's the thing.
Bullying might give you a quicksense of control, but it
doesn't fix what's really goingon inside.
It might distract you from yourown struggles for a moment, but
it doesn't make them go away.
Here's an outcome check.
What are you actually gettingfrom this?
(08:05):
Are you gaining the attentionyou want, or are people
distancing themselves from you?
Are you taking things fromothers, or is it creating more
enemies than respect?
Are you escaping being bulliedyourself by hurting someone else
?
Think about it.
These actions might seem like away to gain power or safety,
but in the end, they often leaveyou more isolated,
(08:28):
misunderstood and distrusted.
Number two build empathy.
Take a moment and imagine whatit would be like to be in the
shoes of the person you'rebullying.
Think about how it would feelto face those words or actions
every day.
Why does this matter?
Because understanding the painyou're causing doesn't make you
(08:51):
weak.
It makes you human.
Empathy is a powerful tool thatcan help you connect with
others and find better ways toexpress your emotions.
Number three seek real support.
If you're dealing with anger,frustration, fear or insecurity,
talk to someone a counselor, ateacher or anyone you trust.
(09:14):
Why?
Because facing what's reallybothering you takes guts and it
can change your life for thebetter.
It means you're brave enough towant something more for
yourself and willing to put inthe work to get there.
Many who bully do so as aresponse to their own pain.
There's help to break thatcycle.
(09:37):
Number four understand thelong-term impact.
The habits you're building nowhurting others to feel powerful.
Using aggression to solveproblems can follow you into
adulthood.
These behaviors can lead tobroken relationships, trouble at
work and a reputation that'shard to shake, but it doesn't
have to be this way.
(09:57):
You have the power to changeand build a future you can be
proud of.
And finally, number five,channel your energy positively.
Instead of tearing others down,put your energy into building
yourself up.
Focus on a sport, an art form,music or a skill that makes you
(10:18):
feel strong and proud.
Why?
Because real confidence andrespect come from achieving
something on your own, not frommaking others feel small.
Research shows that engaging inpositive, structured activities
can reduce aggressive behaviorsand increase self-esteem.
You have a choice.
You don't have to stay stuck inbehaviors that hurt others and
(10:40):
ultimately hurt yourself.
Be better.
Choose change, and I believeyou can become the person you
truly want to be.
Now I want to talk to all ofyou who see bullying happening
the bystanders, the friends, theclassmates who might feel like
it's none of your business.
But here's the truth you havemore power than you realize.
(11:03):
The way you respond when yousee bullying can either fuel it
or stop it in its tracks.
Bullies often thrive onattention, approval or the
silence of those around them.
When no one steps in, it sendsa message that their behavior is
acceptable or even entertaining.
But you can change that.
(11:24):
Here's what you need to knowand what you can do.
Number one understand whybullies do it.
Bullies often act out of theirown pain, insecurity, need for
power or desire for attention.
This doesn't make theirbehavior okay, but it helps
explain why they do it.
By understanding theirmotivations, you can see that
(11:44):
their behavior is often areflection of their struggles,
not a sign of strength.
Number two don't be a silentbystander.
If you see bullying happening,don't look the other way.
Silence can be taken asapproval.
Instead, you can speak up ifit's safe to do so.
A simple hey, that's not cool,or leave them alone can go a
(12:05):
long way.
Why?
Because bullies often rely onthe belief that no one will
challenge them.
When even one person stands up,it can shift the balance of
power.
Number three offer support tothe target.
After a bullying incident,reach out to the person who was
targeted.
Let them know they're not alone.
(12:26):
A kind word, sitting with themat lunch or simply asking if
they're okay can make a hugedifference.
Why Bullying thrives onisolation.
Your support shows the personbeing bullied that they have
allies, which can reduce theemotional impact of the bullying
.
4.
(12:46):
Avoid giving bullies theattention they want.
Many bullies act out to gain anaudience or to feel powerful.
Laughing along, spreadinggossip or even just watching can
reinforce their behavior.
Instead, walk away, change thesubject or shift attention to
something positive.
Why, without an audience,bullying loses its power.
(13:12):
Number five report what you see.
If the situation feels toorisky to intervene directly, go
to a trusted adult a teacher,counselor or administrator and
let them know what's happening.
Reporting isn't about gettingsomeone in trouble.
It's about preventing harm andmaking your school a safer place
(13:32):
.
Why Adults can step in andaddress the situation in ways
that may be harder for peers.
Number six be a role model.
Treat everyone with respect andkindness, even those who might
be different from you.
Create an environment wherebullying behavior doesn't fit in
(13:54):
.
When you model positivebehavior, others are more likely
to follow.
Why Peer influence is powerful.
When you set a positive example, you encourage others to do the
same.
And finally, number seven formallies and stand together.
If you see bullying happeningregularly, band together with
(14:16):
other peers to show that itwon't be tolerated.
There is strength in numbers.
When a group stands up againstbullying, it sends a clear
message that it has no place inyour school.
Remember, you have the power toincrease or decrease bullying
through your reactions.
By standing up, speaking outand offering support, you can be
(14:38):
a part of the solution.
Up, speaking out and offeringsupport, you can be a part of
the solution.
Together, we can create aculture where respect, kindness
and empathy are the norm andwhere bullying has no place to
hide.
You might think one person can'tmake a difference, but you
absolutely can.
Your actions matter.
Be the change, be the supportsomeone needs, be the reason
(15:00):
bullying stops.
And finally, to all theeducators out there, first off,
thank you so much for what youdo.
You are on the front lines andyour influence matters more than
you know.
When it comes to bullying, yourrole is critical.
I know you're busy, overwhelmedand managing countless
(15:25):
responsibilities.
It can be tempting to turn ablind eye to subtle behaviors
eye rolls, whispered insults,quiet exclusion because they
seem small compared to biggerissues, but these small actions
are often the roots of somethingmuch larger and more harmful.
You need to be vigilant, createand enforce a zero tolerance
(15:49):
policy for all forms of bullying, no matter how subtle.
Think about it.
If it were your own childfacing these behaviors, would
you want someone to step in?
Defaulting to kids will be kids.
When you see these acts setsthe stage for bullying to grow
and thrive, don't tolerate it.
(16:09):
Intervene, speak up and make itclear that respect is not
optional.
It's the standard.
Show every student that you'rehere to protect and support them
and that your school is a placewhere everyone belongs.
So here's some things to thinkabout.
Number one set clearexpectations and consequences.
(16:30):
Make sure students know thatbullying is unacceptable and lay
out clear, consistentconsequences.
Why Predictable rules andaccountability help create a
culture of respect and safety.
Number two model respectfulbehavior.
Treat students, colleagues andparents with respect.
Why Kids learn from what theysee.
(16:52):
When they see adultsdemonstrating respect, it
becomes the norm.
Research shows that modelingpositive behaviors can
significantly impact schoolculture.
Number three interveneimmediately when you see
bullying.
Step in quickly with calm,clear communication.
Why Addressing it on the spotsends a strong message that
(17:16):
bullying isn't tolerated and canstop patterns of behavior.
Number four create safereporting systems.
Make it easy for students toreport bullying, whether it's in
person or online.
Use anonymous reporting tools,open door policies and regular
check-ins.
Why Students need to knowthey'll be heard and supported
(17:40):
without fear of judgment.
Number five reinforce positivebehaviors.
Catch students being kind,inclusive or helpful and
acknowledge it.
Why Reinforcing positivebehaviors makes them more likely
to continue.
Build a culture where respectand kindness are valued and
(18:02):
rewarded.
Number six address onlinebullying.
Teach responsible onlinebehavior and set up systems for
reporting and managingcyberbullying.
Why Online bullying can be justas harmful, if not more, but
proactive measures can limit itsimpact.
And finally, number seven teachconflict resolution skills.
(18:26):
Offer tools for students tomanage conflicts without
aggression.
Use role-playing workshops andteach practical de-escalation
techniques.
Why Giving students the skillsto resolve conflicts reduces
incidents and empowers them.
So let me leave you with this.
Bullying doesn't have to defineanyone's story.
(18:47):
To those being bullied standstrong and know you're not alone
.
To those doing the bullying youcan change and you have the
power to be better.
To everyone else your actionsshape the school environment.
Let's choose to support, tostand up and create a world
where everyone feels safe, seenand respected.
(19:11):
Thank you, let's step uptogether and make the change we
want to see.
Popular Podcasts
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.