Keep in mind that if you are concerned that you might be in physical danger, you must speak to an adult who can help you. No one wants to rat on someone, but your safety has to be your first priority.

Another thing to remember if you or a friend is being bullied is to avoid being alone. Try to remain part of a group by walking home at the same time as other teens or by always sticking close to friends or classmates, especially before and after school.

If you're being bullied and you're ready to stand up for yourself, there are some techniques you can try:

* Walk away and ignore the bully. It may seem like a coward's response, but it's not. Bullies thrive on the reaction they get and if you walk away, the message is that you just don't care. Sooner or later the bully will probably get bored with trying to bother you.

* Be confident; walk tall and hold your head high. Use your body language to show that you're not vulnerable.

* Try humor. If you can learn to laugh at yourself then you won't give the bully the response he or she is looking for.

* However you choose to deal with a bully, don't use physical force (like kicking, hitting, or pushing). You can never be sure what the bully will do and violence never solves a problem, anyway.

* Talk about it. It may help to talk to a guidance counselor, teacher, or friend - anyone who can give you the support you need. Talking can be a good outlet for the fears and frustrations that can build when you're being bullied.

Reviewed by: Steve Dowshen, MD, and Jennifer Shroff Pendley, PhD
Date reviewed: March 2001