I found this graphic that sums up a lot in relation to the attitudes of society as a whole when it comes to bullying. Until I am blue in the face I will maintain that the most powerful place to be in, in regards to a bullying situation, is the bystander (or position F).
I would also go out on a limb and suggest that position E, disengaged onlooker, has the potential to be a powerful force if they are willing to step out of their comfort zone and speak up.
To all those in position D: you are a coward and should examine your conscious. Bullying is quite simple. Either you are for or against it. If you are laughing at an instance of bullying and do nothing to protect the victim then you are just as guilty as the offender and should face appropriate consequences.
This graphic demonstrates the need to CHANGE social culture. Teachers, I suggest you use this graphic and discuss with your class each position and provide examples (read my early articles) and see how they identify right/wrong and bullying. Parents, talk with your kids about each position and ask if they have ever witnessed bullying behavior.
These conversations are very different depending on age. When I talk to my middle school child our conversations are very frank and I use real life examples that I have seen and heard from working as a teen crises manager. With my early elementary kiddos we focus on being kind and making sure our words or actions are not mean or make people feel bad. Even discussing who plays with who at recess is important. We talk about the importance of not leaving others out and being a friend to everyone.
Wow...I guess it starts with me.
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