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5 Ways Christians Can Respond to Bullying

Bullying is a pervasive issue affecting millions worldwide. It’s a problem that transcends age, gender, and social status. While it manifests in various forms, the core elements of bullying remain consistent: the intentional infliction of harm - often through physical, verbal, or psychological means - on an individual who feels powerless to defend themselves. As Christians, it’s up to us to lead the charge on shaping a more compassionate and loving society to help prevent and stop bullying. 

 

Shelton High Fives


WHAT CONSTITUES BULLYING?

Bullying is not a recent phenomenon, but, with the advent of technology and the proliferation of social media, there are new outlets for and new forms of bullying. At its core, bullying is an aggressive behavior intended to cause harm, distress, or discomfort to another person. Research shows that bullying can take on several forms.

  • Physical bullying includes physical aggression, such as hitting, kicking, pushing, or damaging someone's property.
  • Verbal bullying involves hurtful words, name-calling, insults, and teasing designed to undermine a person's self-esteem.
  • Social bullying often involves manipulating relationships, spreading rumors, and excluding individuals to isolate and emotionally harm them.
  • Cyberbullying has become a significant concern with the rise of technology. It involves using digital platforms to harass, threaten, or demean others, often anonymously.
 

cell phones

 

WHAT ISN'T BULLYING?

Everyday conflicts do not equate to bullying, which is a serious issue that can cause emotional and psychological harm to individuals. It's essential to distinguish between bullying and other forms of interaction that may be unpleasant but are not considered bullying. Here are examples of everyday interactions and respectful conflicts.

  • A single instance of conflict or disagreement does not necessarily qualify as bullying. People may have disagreements or arguments from time to time, but these isolated incidents do not make someone a bully.
  • Sharing differing opinions or constructive criticism is not bullying when done respectfully. People can engage in debates or discussions in healthy conversations without resorting to personal attacks or intimidation.
  • Conflict is a natural part of human relationships. It is not bullying when individuals communicate openly and honestly to resolve conflicts. Conflict resolution involves listening, compromising, and finding common ground.
 

MS girls talking

 
  • Choosing not to be friends with someone or declining an invitation is not bullying. Individuals have the right to make choices about their social interactions, which should be respected, even if they may hurt someone's feelings.
  • Forming social groups or cliques is a part of human social dynamics. While it can sometimes lead to feelings of exclusion, it does not inherently constitute bullying. People have the right to choose their friends and associates.
  • Light-hearted teasing among friends is common and is typically based on mutual trust and respect. It becomes bullying when it turns into hurtful, demeaning, or repetitive behavior that causes distress.
  • Healthy competition, whether in sports, academics, or the workplace, is not bullying. It can motivate and lead to personal growth, as long as it is fair and respectful.
 

cross country

 

APPROACHING BULLYING FROM A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE

Our shared faith emphasizes values of love, compassion, forgiveness, and empathy. Applying these principles can be a powerful way to combat bullying and foster a more caring society. We can ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” and perhaps find ourselves with the following approaches to bully behavior.

  • Teach love and compassion: Christian teachings emphasize loving one's neighbor as oneself. Encouraging students and peers to treat one another with kindness and empathy is foundational to combating bullying. Children and adults should be taught to value every human being as a child of God, deserving of respect and love.
  • Model forgiveness: Forgiveness is a core Christian principle. Teaching individuals to forgive those who have wronged them can break the cycle of retaliation, often seen in bullying situations. It doesn't mean condoning the behavior but rather letting go of the hurt and anger.
  • Create safe spaces: Churches, Christian schools, and faith-based organizations play a vital role in creating safe spaces where individuals feel accepted and loved. These spaces can offer support, counseling, and guidance for both victims and bullies. Christians are called to stand up for others, and creating a safe culture requires us to hold people accountable for their actions and speak up for those targeted.
 
Peer Mentoring
 
  • Promote communication and conflict resolution: Encouraging open and respectful communication can help resolve conflicts before they escalate into bullying situations. Christian principles of reconciliation can guide individuals in finding common ground and understanding.
  • Pray and support: Praying for individuals involved in bullying, both victims and bullies, can be a powerful way to foster change. Additionally, providing support and counseling within Christian communities can help individuals heal and grow.
 

senior boys praying

 

Though bullying has become pervasive in our society, Christians can play a vital role in eradicating bullying and creating a more caring and compassionate society. By teaching future generations these principles, creating safe spaces, promoting communication, and offering support, we can fulfill our calling to be instruments of God's love and grace in the world.

 

Mrs. Tawanna Rusk is the associate head of school for Mount Paran Christian School. She enjoyed a twenty-year career in Cobb County Schools before joining the MPCS family as lower school head, and subsequently assistant head of school, head of high school, and head of upper school. Mrs. Rusk earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Special Education from Georgia College, a Masters degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University, and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University. Ever the lifelong learner, she embraces innovative teaching methods and new technology and deployed the use of AI in the drafting of this post.


Building a Christian commUNITY is at the core of Mount Paran Christian School. Click to learn more about Christian life at MPCS.

  

 
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