Bullying behaviour seems on the rise

"I would rather be a little nobody than to be an evil somebody." Abraham Lincoln

Bullying behaviour has become increasingly prevalent across political, economic, social/cultural and racial/ethnic lines. Bullying is defined as aggressive physical contact, abuse or intimidation to cause another human being injury, anxiety or discomfort. If bullying is done by a group, it is called "mobbing"; the victim of bullying may be referred to as a "target". Cyber-bullying relies on information technology to use force or coercion to abuse or intimidate others via the anonymous rumour mill, The uncensored Internet has made the problem more vicious and lethal.

Insecure bullies seem to have a need to feel powerful and in situational control. Bottom line: bullying is not okay. One's dignity may be assaulted, taunted, threatened and mocked, but it cannot be taken away unless it is consciously or unconsciously surrendered. This worldwide malady can have detrimental consequences for the general climate and for the individual rights of students to co-exist in a secure and supportive learning environment without fear. Physical, verbal or psychological intimidation recurring over time creates a hateful pattern of bigoted harassment and hurtful abuse.

Concerned onlookers must develop a coping response and fresh mindsets to stop trying to treat the symptoms and instead seek remedies, getting to the heart of the problem in order to defuse bullying. Self-absorbed parents contribute to the shared blame by refusing to become actively involved in their child's life. The next generation of savvy young technocrats represents our mutual future legacy and only true hope for survival.

"Knowing what's right doesn't mean much unless you do what's right." Theodore Roosevelt.

Charles Frederickson

Bangkok