Bullying – 16 plus
Bullying can affect you at any stage of your life. It can be carried out by those who you have known for many years, or by friends or acquaintances that you have just come into your circle of friends.
If bullying is happening to you, whether inside or outside of school or college, at work or a place you socialise at, then talk to Voice.
Common types of bullying
Social bullying
This is often carried out behind people’s back and is designed to humiliate and isolate them. Social bullying includes lying and spreading gossip and false rumours, leaving someone out all the time and encouraging people to turn against others.
This type of bullying uses relationships and friendships as weapons, and includes:
- excluding people;
- gossiping;
- giving other ‘the silent treatment’
- belittling, embarrassing and making fun of others;
- only being friends with people if they do things; and
- being pressured to go along with the group.
Sexualised bullying
This can include inappropriate sexual remarks, accusing people of having sex with others or pressuring people in to sexting.
Physical bullying
Physical bullying is when someone hurts someone else physically, such as by using violence. It could be a friend, or girlfriend or boyfriend – whoever it is, it’s never ok.
What can I do if bullying is getting me down?
- Talk to an adult you trust. They’ll help you, and will help make sure you’re ok;
- Talk to Voice. We speak to people like you day in, day out and will help you to feel better and stop the bullying.
I’m bullying someone else. How can I stop?
Is there something happening in your life which is making you upset, frustrated or angry? Do you know why you’re bullying someone else?
Have a think of why you’re bullying someone else – this will help you stop, and help you deal with whatever is going on.
Talk to someone you trust who can work with you to feel better within yourself, so that you don’t take it out on anyone else. Or, talk to us here at Voice. We won’t judge you or put you down – we’re here to help you stop bullying and to help you with anything else you may be feeling.