Myths & Facts

Myth:
Telling someone will only make it worse.

Fact:
Staying silent and not telling anyone will only give the bully more freedom to continue hurting people. When others get involved to put a stop to the bullying, the bully has less power to keep doing harm. Find an adult who will listen to you AND make sure something is done about the bullying. Adults have a responsibility to ensure that youth are safe from harm, and bullying is harmful!

Myth:
Bullying is a “normal” part of growing up… everyone has to go through it.

 

Fact:
Bullying is not normal or acceptable. This attitude makes sure that bullies have the power they need to hurt others. Bullying is a serious act, and should be treated like one.

Myth:
If I see someone being bullied, I don’t have to do anything because I know an adult will step in.

 

Fact:
Other kids are watching 85% of the time when one kid bullies another kid. Adults like teachers or parents hardly ever see a bully being mean to someone else.
(Source: bullying.org)

Myth:
Bullying doesn’t happen very often.

 

Fact:
Bullying happens to someone in Canada every 7 minutes on the playground.
(Source: bullying.org)

Myth:
Bullying isn’t a big deal… it doesn’t cause any serious harm.

 

Fact:
Bullying is associated with a range of physical and mental health problems, as well as suicide, educational problems, antisocial problems, and relationship problems.