Subjects
Grades
If you see someone being bullied, it’s important to respond in a way that supports the victim without causing the situation to escalate. To help you know what to do on the spur of the moment, we’ve put together a few guidelines.
If you witness direct bullying, indirect bullying, or cyberbullying, you can help the victim by following these steps.
The last thing you want to do is become part of the problem. If you see or hear someone making nasty comments, avoid laughing or encouraging them in any way. Likewise, don’t spread rumours or participate in conversations that involve making fun of someone.
If you witness direct bullying, it’s important to react in a safe and constructive manner. Here are a few things you can do to diffuse the situation:
Use words. One way to intervene is by asking the bully to stop. In the case of indirect bullying, if you feel comfortable doing so, you can openly express your disagreement with the comments directed at the victim. Say or write simple but clear statements such as “I don’t think that’s funny” or “What you’re doing is bullying.” If you’re not comfortable expressing yourself in front of others, you can also wait until you’re alone with the bully or send them a private message. Make sure not to use offensive language. And above all, remember that violence in any form is never the answer to bullying.
Accompany the victim elsewhere. If it’s safe for you to physically intervene, you can step in and invite the victim to come with you. Take them to a trusted adult:
A teacher
An administrative staff member
A psychologist, social worker, or other non-teaching staff member
A parent
Etc.
Ask a responsible adult to step in. If you witness bullying on school property or in public, you can immediately seek out a responsible adult with the ability to intervene and put an end to the situation.
Film the incident. If the bully persists even after you’ve asked for help, you can use your phone to film the incident to have evidence to show an adult. It’s also a good idea to take notes mentally or on your phone, as you may need to describe what happened later in a report.
Be there for the victim. Tell them you can lend a hand with getting help or filling out a bullying report. In addition, don’t hesitate to share any resources you know of that could be helpful, including mental health resources such as a psychoeducator or the free services offered by Tel-jeunes.
If you witness bullying, you have a responsibility to report it to a responsible adult.
A person who’s being bullied or who has been bullied in the past is generally more vulnerable and less self-assured. They often avoid seeking help because they’re afraid of the aggressor. Your willingness to tell someone what you saw can be an invaluable lifeline. What’s more, speaking up on the victim’s behalf will give you a tremendous sense of pride because you’ll know you’ve helped someone.
As a witness, you have the power to make a difference by refusing to participate and showing your support for the victim. Every positive action contributes to making the world a more caring and respectful place.