Teens (13 to 17 Years)
Ways to Respond to Bullying in the Moment
Assertive Response
Confidently Say 'Stop': Use a firm but calm tone to directly tell the bully to stop their behaviour
Set Boundaries: Make it clear that you won’t tolerate being treated that way.
Example Response: "I don't appreciate you speaking to me like that. Please stop."
Humour or Deflection
Use Humour: Sometimes, making a light-hearted comment or joke can disarm the situation.
Redirect Attention: Change the subject or steer the conversation away from the bullying behaviour.
Example Response: "Wow, that was almost clever. You should try stand-up comedy."
Agreeing or Ignoring
Pretend Agreement: Some may choose to agree sarcastically or play along to defuse tension.
Ignore the Bullying: Act as if you didn’t hear or aren’t affected by the bully's words.
Example Response: "Sure, whatever makes you feel better. Anyway, did you catch the game last night?"
Seeking Support
Find a Buddy: Move away and seek support from friends or others nearby.
Report to an Adult: If the situation persists or escalates, inform a teacher, parent, or another trusted adult.
Example Response: "I'm going to talk to [a teacher/parent/friend] about this. Excuse me."
Using Assertive Language
Use "I" Statements: Express your feelings calmly, saying things like "I feel uncomfortable when..."
Avoid Retaliation: Refrain from responding aggressively, as it may escalate the situation.
Example Response: "I feel really uncomfortable when you say things like that. Please stop."
Asserting Confidence
Stand Tall: Maintain good posture and try to show confidence in your body language.
Stay Calm: Avoid showing fear or giving the bully the reaction they seek.
Example Response: Maintaining eye contact and calmly saying, "I don't think your opinion of me matters that much."
Utilizing Technology Safely
Block or Mute: If the bullying is online, block or mute the person and report the behaviour.
Save Evidence: Keep records of any online harassment for documentation purposes.
Example Response: Online, "I'm not going to engage in this conversation anymore. I'll be blocking you now."
Each situation is different, and no single response works for everyone.
It's important to choose a response that feels comfortable and safe for you. Don’t hesitate to seek help from trusted adults or friends if you feel overwhelmed or unsafe.
Remember, you're not alone, and there are people who want to support you.
You can also click the 'Let’s Chat’ button at the top of the page to speak with a trained Kids Helpline volunteer and get support finding resources available to you. We're here to listen, believe you, and help you find resources to get support and stay safe.
Cayman Kids Helpline provides a safe space, and general guidance - this is not a substitute for clinical advice or treatment.
The Kids Helpline is proudly brought to you by the Alex Panton Foundation