Anti-Asian Bullying

Bullying takes on many forms (e.g., physical, verbal, cyber, etc.). The effects can be devastating, as evidenced by recent suicides (http://inamerica.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/17/opinion-what-the-deaths-of-two-soldiers-say-about-anti-asian-bullying/?hpt=us_bn1). Why do people bully? Who is usually targeted? How can bullying be prevented?

There is a myth that bullies have low self-esteem, however there is evidence that they can be quite confident and charismatic. Victims can be targeted for a variety of reasons, including race, religion, gender, personal disposition. It's important to note that victims are do not provoke the bullying and do not deserve to be treated in such a demeaning manner. Effects of bullying can be social isolation, depression/anxiety, and overall feelings of hopelessness. By-standers who do nothing to intervene can create an atmosphere of tolerance for such abusive behaviors, thus exacerbating the victim's sense of helplessness. A no-tolerance policy for bullying is an effective way to stop bullying, however this needs to be enforced at all levels. Talk to someone in charge and don't stop until soemone listens. That's what students at a high school did until school administrators could create a safe learning environment for them. No one deserves to be bullied.