Bullying at Work or School: Are You an Easy Target?

Amy Taylor January 09, 2013

Bullying is a major problem that often goes unnoticed. It is not just common in schools, but has also reached its climax in workplaces. While many adults often think of it as a ‘just part of being a kid’, bullying is a complex social issue that leaves lasting and devastating effects to its victims.

Are you an easy target?

Thanks to the hard work of psychologists and scientists from all over the world – people are now beginning to understand the concept of bullying and its impact. According to experts, you may be an easy target for bullies if:

· You are different. Studies show that bullies look for people who are unique is some way – such as those with unique hair colour or a different sexuality or body shape, and also those who have physical abnormalities. In the workplace, easy targets for bullying include minority workers, older employees, and those with physical defects or disabilities.

· You’re too kind. Bullies are not as tough as many people think they are. They are also afraid to be bullied back. And so, they choose targets who are too nice to retaliate or those who always try hard to get along with everyone.

· You’re competent. In schools, the common targets of bullies are those who academically stand out. They think of smart people as competition so they try to intimidate them. Often, bullies call smart people ‘nerds’. In workplaces, usual targets are those who perform well.

· You are socially isolated. Students or workers considered as leaders are less likely to be targets of bullying because they are surrounded by people who admire and follow them. On the other hand, socially isolated individuals are easy targets because bullies think these people may find it hard to fight back.

If you think you are an easy target of bullying, you don’t have to worry much. There are things you can do to conquer the bullies. Here they are:

· Understand bullying. There are different types of bullying – physical, emotional and the most common – cyber bullying. Understanding the concept of bullying is the first step to preventing it.

· Inform your school heads or employees about it. Leaders must be aware of bullying and its likelihood to take place in their institution. Send a letter to your management about the importance of raising awareness on bullying and encourage them to carry out programmes that will protect victims and targets. This way, you just don’t protect yourself, but everyone else who is being bullied.

· Talk with a therapist. If bullying is something you are not comfortable tackling with your family, or with your teachers or managers, find a therapist or counsellor you can trust. It can work wonders and getting your emotions out can be a great first step to tackling the problem.

· Stop the rumours. The reason why many people don’t intervene and offer assistance to victims is because bullies make negative and false rumours about their victims. School heads or employees must be tapped to help stop the rumours.

Dear Readers,

Can you give other tips and suggestions on how to conquer bullying?

Share your comments below.