Bullying Behavior ~ The Key to Surviving Bully Battles

by Dr. Jeanne King, Ph.D.

Have you ever found yourself at war even when you haven’t enlisted or been drafted for service? Sometimes bullies just fall into your lap and there you are in their battle…if you allow it.

The operative words here are “if you allow it.” Many people believe that when the bully shows up, it is time gather your weapons and come to battle.

Battling the Bully

They think that holding your own is about fighting back or, at a minimum, letting the bully know that they are bullying. So, they strategize their every move to gain an edge in the combat. And they plan out their dialogue to insure that the bully is completely informed of their bullish behavior.

Then, they sit back and the rounds of battle ensue…with the bully becoming meaner, more aggressive and unfortunately more violent. Their opponent, on the other hand, becomes aroused, frightened and consumed with intimidation, as they swing at the aggression of the bully.

How does this benefit the person on the receiving end of the bully battle? I’m not convinced it benefits them at all. To the contrary, it looks and feels like wasted energy and unnecessary wear and tear on them and their lives.