Preventing Violence I Violence l Any physical force

Preventing Violence

I. Violence l Any physical force used to harm people or damage property.

II. Factors that lead to conflict between teens Feeling threatened. l Unmanaged anger l Lack of respect (for self and others) l Bullying l Gangs l

III. Avoiding dangerous situations 1. 2. 3. 4. Recognize the signs Calm things down Offer alternatives Leave the situation

IV. Bullying l A person or group of people repeatedly trying to harm someone who is weaker or vulnerable.

V. Bullying Behaviors l l l l Direct Attacks: Hitting Threatening Intimidating Maliciously Teasing Taunting Name-Calling Sexual Remarks Damaging Belongings l l l Indirect Attacks: Spreading Rumors Encouraging others to reject or exclude someone Cyber bullying l l E-mails Instant messages Myspace Text Messaging

VI. Characteristics of Bullies Like to dominate others l Self-Centered l Poor social skills l Poor social judgment l Insecure l Poor Self-Esteem l Victims of bullying l

VII. Effects of Bullying Stress l Decreased self-esteem l Decreased feelings of self-worth l Anxiety l Withdrawal l Insecurity l Depression l

VIII. Action Steps If you are being bullied: 1. Talk to your parents or trusted adults. 2. Don’t blame yourself 3. Act confident, hold your head up, make eye contact, and walk confidently 4. Try to make friends with other students 5. Avoid situations where bullying can happen 6. Take steps to rebuild your self-confidence 7. Do not resort to violence or carry a gun or other weapon.

IX. Conflict Resolution l Nonviolent way to deal with a disagreement.

X. DESC method of conflict resolution. l Describe the situation l What is bothering you? l Express your feelings l l How does the situation make you feel? Use “I” messages l Specify what you would like to happen. l Tell person what you would prefer. l Consequences l Positive possible outcomes caused by change.