Roles within Bullying
The Bully
Bullies themselves can be divided into different roles - From your experience, can you recognise any of these?
The RINGLEADER - yes, the one that calls all the shots! Starts the 'action' (whatever type!) - in control and takes the lead.
The ASSISTANT - the individual that 'assists' the bully. For example, in a physical bullying situation, the Assistant could be involved by holding down the target to help the Ringleader.
The REINFORCER - the other annoying one that 'eggs on' the Ringleader. For example, in a physical bullying situation the Reinforcer may shout, 'Go on give them a good kicking!'
Both the Assistant and the Reinforcer do not want to get on the wrong side of the Ringleader.
The Non-Involved
The DEFENDER - the cool dude that isn't going to stand for this behaviour in front of their eyes and does something about it! They often go and get somebody that can stop it or stand up for the target themselves. We need more of these!!!
The BYSTANDER - ever watched a bullying situation, remained silent and done nothing about it? This is what an Outsider does. They may be aware of what is going on but are not prepared to defend the target and get involved. If all Outsiders became Defenders - this would make a majority against the bullies!
The Target
Individuals can be at greater risk of becoming a target due to:
having few friends
having friends which they cannot trust or are not 'close'
shyness
low self-esteem
having SEN or disability
being racially different
being physically different (stammers, obese)
behaving inappropriately (irritating)
being disliked by others
Risk Factors
Some people are more likely to be targets. What characteristics do you think they may have to make them more likely to be a target?
Bullying behaviour is often directed at individuals or groups who are perceived to be different:
ethnic group
religion
social class
socio-economic group
individuals who have a disability or Special Educational Needs
individuals who are members of a particular gender
individuals who are perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender
individuals who are in care or are themselves young carers.
The bullying is targeted at this "difference" with the intention to denigrate, hurt or embarrass.
"Bullying is when someone picks on soneone else because they are different - their race, height, weight or looks . . . it is about prejudice and discrimination . . . when someone is not respected." Year 8 Girl (Tackling Bullying: Listening to the Views of Children and Young People by Christine Oliver and Mano Candappa, 2003, DfES Publications)