Being aware of the contexts and settings where bullying (and any other kind of discrimination) takes place is the a key element to fighting it. As two sides of the same coin, diversity and tolerance are on the opposite side of the spectrum of these same settings.
- Cultural diversity / discrimination.
- Racial diversity /discrimination.
- Religious diversity / discrimination.
- Age diversity / discrimination.
- Sex or Gender diversity / discrimination.
- Sexual orientation diversity / discrimination.
- Disability diversity/ discrimination.
Therefore if in one hand, we should promote diversity in all these fields, we need as well to be aware that for each of these fields there might be discrimination. They are opposites and we should opt for the good one 🙂
The list above allows us as well to have a clearer view of the variety of situations where discrimination takes place in society. It is really present in many domains and it is easy to find it when we are involved or engaged into any of these fields.
Thinking particularly about bullying, this also allows us to perceive that bullying does not affect only young people or takes place only in schools. Adults, are also targeted and the results can also be absolutely devastating.
The video below, sets us up with a couple of hints and guidelines on how to “disarm” a bully. A little bit of derision and subtle humor can be enough sometimes to bring a situation to an end. One needs to show the bully that we are not feeling affected by his words and like a game that we lose, we don’t want to play again. Not always easy and it certainly requires a lot of self-confidence but it’s worth trying…