Even if you feel intimidated or scared, unless you’re in imminent physical danger, assertively standing up to your bully builds confidence, and bullies will quickly grow bored with calm, collected people who don’t respond to their harassment.
Some examples of good comebacks include “Is that the best you can do?” or “You’re acting like a bully. Please stop. ” Laughing and saying their criticisms are ridiculous is also a great way to disengage a bully. [5] X Research source Kill them with kindness. Take their taunts as a compliment and pretend to agree with everything they say. For example, if someone harasses you about an incident that happened a long time ago, tell them they have a sharp memory and ask them how they can remember so far back.
Put your arms up in front of your chest and face to deflect any incoming slaps or punches. Do your best to dodge any punches or kicks. As soon as you spot a friend or adult, shout to them that you need help. Bullies will usually stop physical altercations immediately when adults are around because the consequences for fighting are severe. Never throw the first punch or slap at your bully. If you do, you will probably get in just as much trouble as the bully. If the bully is physically hurting you, you cannot wait for them to become bored and leave you alone. Tell an adult immediately.
Avoiding your bully doesn’t mean that they won or that you’re scared of them. It just means that you are looking out for your own safety and well-being. [10] X Research source
If you are being repeatedly harassed on social media, consider disabling comments on your social media accounts. [12] X Expert Source Dr. Niall Geoghegan, PsyDClinical Psychologist Expert Interview. 24 July 2019. Some bullies might go so far as to create alternate accounts to regain access to you. Be skeptical of friend requests from people you don’t know. Only accept new followers and friend requests from people you know personally. [13] X Trustworthy Source StopBullying. gov Website run by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services providing information related to identifying and preventing bullying Go to source If the bully has your phone number, you might need to get a new number to make sure that they are completely cut off from you. Some newer phones have call block features which help you Block a Number from Texting You or calling you. Simply list the number as the one you want blocked, and you will have no further contact with that phone number.
Take screenshots or photos of written threats so you have evidence of the bullying. Or, if they’re verbal threats, consider recording them with your phone to play back for a trusted adult.
Often, bullies will stop their bullying before you have to involve the police because most bullies are just insecure and attention seeking. However, don’t feel embarrassed if you do have to contact the authorities in the end. Remember that you are not the one in the wrong, and you have a fundamental right to feel safe when you leave your home or are online.
Social media platforms take cyberbullying very seriously, and many times the platforms will disable or delete the bully’s account for violating their terms of service.
