Fill the Knowledge Gap

Once bullying occurs, there is a knowledge gap on what to do next. Individuals and organizations must become knowledgeable about the laws, policies, and regulations regarding bullying-related incidents. Questions to ask are what the state and local laws regarding harassment, extortion, hate crimes, bullying, assault, stalking, or cyberbullying are, so that protective action is possible. If the bullying event is determined to be criminal, then the individual or organization must seek legal counsel and act as advised.  Also, protecting the victim or victims is critical at all times to prevent further harm or harassment.

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Finding a Hero Within the Bully Triad

Within the unhealthy educational or workplace culture, there are abundant opportunities for positive change; however, it will not happen without an educational intervention. The bully, the victim, and the bystander have one of the most unhealthy social connections known to man. This bully triad will repeat the unhealthy alliance until an interruption in the cycle allows triad members to step out of the dynamic and become heroes. Dr. Zimbardo, known for his work on the psychology of evil, has recently turned his research focus to how people can turn daily challenges into opportunities for everyday heroism. For some, the heroism will be those who teach about the difference between good and evil; for others, it will be the policy change agents, some will be the protectors of values, and others will stand with the marginalized. 

Dr. Stewart

Bullying and Moral Injury

The bully triad consists of the bully, the bystander, and the victim. When bullying occurs, the toxic relationship between members creates moral injury. Moral injury occurs in individuals and groups when forced participation of events occurs either through active or passive means, where the violation of member values and beliefs or spirituality are disrespected and reduces the meaning and significance of life. Moral injury for the bully triad members creates feelings of emotional guilt and shame, betrayal, and cognitive dissonance. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidal ideation, bullying, and victims of war, abuse, rape, and trauma all have a causal link to moral injury, which makes treatment and recovery difficult.  

Contact PYS for Consulting and Courses on Bully Prevention

Dr. Stewart 

pictureyourselfstronger@yahoo.com

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Create a Bully-Free Cost Structure

The bully-free cost structure is an abstract concept that is often buried within other budgets and attended to only in crisis. A bullying management and prevention program requires a specific budget to support continuous improvement in organizational culture, communities, and home environments. For example, outdated policies and procedures may need to be rewritten, and employee assistance programs implemented, and funds reserved for personal counseling as needed. However, don't overlook the shared and free resources in the community that might provide substantial support and shelter.

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Bully Management and Prevention Certification

Identify Unmet Needs

Individuals who have self-actualized are less likely to become bullies because they have achieved their highest needs. Self-actualization is a state of congruence between the real and the ideal self. Any disequilibrium between the real and the ideal self creates actual or perceived unmet needs, which are often drivers for bully-type behaviors. Therefore, the first step in bullying prevention is to identify the unmet needs of the individual, community, group, organization, or educational setting. 

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Bully Management and Prevention Certification