Comment & Analysis: Here's why you should stand up to bullies

Reacting aggressively towards bullies shows them that you will stand up for yourself and others.

Copyright: Dwayne Hards.

Although some people — including some older people, teachers, snakes (snitches), and teachers' pets — won't admit that punching a bully in the face will probably work, kids and teenagers fight all the time, and it's a normal part of growing up; therefore, the police are unlikely to get involved as this would not be in the public interest. Most importantly, you are unlikely to be bullied again if you react.

Reacting to bullies will probably deter them from continuing with their behaviour. Reacting to bullies will also make them think twice before bullying you or someone else in the future because they will know that you aren't afraid to stand up for yourself or others.

While you may get into some trouble with your school (or place of education) for reacting aggressively towards a bully, the police are highly unlikely to get involved, especially if you're a young person. You are unlikely to be bothered by the bullies in the future if you react, according to people who have stood up to them.

Bullies are terrified of being stood up to, so standing up to them will likely deter them from bullying anyone else anytime soon. If you don't stand up to a bully, then they'll think they can bully others who are weaker than you.

If it's ok for a bully to pick on you, then it's ok for you to pick on them. Respect and loyalty works both ways. This is fair, in my opinion.

I would strongly encourage the victims of bullying to react and tell someone they trust; for example, a friend or family member, a teacher, or a councillor. Doing this will help them express their feelings and may even get the bully into trouble with their school or place of education.

After the difficult and challenging time we have all endured, please treat yourself and others with respect, and be a loyal broski/g/bro/friend/mate. Loyalty is the best policy.