By Star Coleman and Nicholas Gordon Staff Writers
What is bullying?
According to East English Village school psychologist Andrea Lightbourn, “bullying are behaviors that focus on making someone else feel inadequate.”
Bullying includes things such as harassment, physical harm and repeatedly demeaning speech.
“Bullying kills confidence, creates fears and low self-esteem,” Lightbourn said.
Teenage bullying is very common.
EEV Senior Gearramia Coffey said he was bullied in his early teens. He said he was taunted and often called “yellow boy” and “lanky” which referred to the color of his skin and his stature.
“Bullying is a hindrance for the development of youth,” Coffey said. “I persevered and continued being unique, in spite of being bullied.”
Some effects of teenage bullying are physical problems that often results in injuries.
“Bulling can lead to depression, drug use and even suicide,” Lightbourn said.
If someone is being bullied and needs help, there are many advocates and support groups, as well as nationwide campaigns against bullying.
