The Odd One Out

Bullying is the use of force, coercion, hurtful teasing or threat to abuse someone.

Intentional Exclusion

One of the main forms of bullying is bullying by exclusion which is actually ‘emotional abuse.’

This happens when others try to intentionally leave you out of different events such as social gatherings or group activities.

At the time, the bully believes that he or she is influencing others and is better than them.

Reasons and Effects

Some of the reasons:

• Power
• Social Status
• Prejudices

The bully, perhaps, thinks that it is not a big deal, but the real picture is that it may have major negative impacts on the other person’s mind and body.

A New Addition: Cyberbullying

The introduction of a new way to exert power over others is cyberbullying which may lead to various mental health issues, such as:

• Increased stress and anxiety
• Depression
• Acting out violently
• Low self-esteem

Cyberbullying can also result in long-lasting emotional effects, even after the bullying has stopped.

Statistics Don’t Lie

A person can lose interest in school which leads to a decrease in academic performance. Multiple statistical reports establish that around 21 percent of students have felt excluded twice or more times in school.

Let’s Help!!

Undoubtedly, it is important that we must help others feel included in our groups or our activities.

There are many ways to do so:

• You could make the bully recognize the harmful effects of his or her immature acts and how it feels to be in the other person’s shoes.
• You can help the person being harassed by being there for them and make their voice be heard.

If you ever saw someone being left out, how would you react?

Talha Malik

Grade 9