- Bullies have a problem with self-esteem and do not like themselves. They try to feel powerful by picking on someone else. They worry about what others think of them, and in order to look good, they provoke victims. They usually don't want to fight. Don't give your power away to item.
- Cold, passive reactions, including acting like a victim, can bring on more abuse from a bully.
- HOT, aggressive reactions, including yelling and threatening someone who is a dangerous bully, can bring on more bullying and abuse.
- The BeCool response to bullying has three steps:
- LOOKING COOL by "calming yourself before doing anything (have a detached, non-threatening demeanor)
- THINKING COOL with positive self-talk and clear decision-making (using "non-blaming perceiving style" statements)
- ACTING COOL by choosing to "look the look" (anti-victim strategy.)
- No one can "make you angry" any more than they can "make you act HOT or COLD. BeCool makes you aware that you have a choice in how you look, think, and act.
- Benefits of being COOL (an anti-victim) include reducing bullying, feeling good about yourself, protecting yourself from emotional and physical harm, and empowering yourself to take responsibility for your actions and what happens to you. This is the opposite of being a victim.
- Being Cool sometimes means walking away from trouble, especially when you’re outnumbered or when someone might have a weapon.
Independent Viewing of Video
Encourage students to view the video independently. You may also Suggest that the students take the video home to teach their families the BeCool strategy. Have students practice the calming techniques along with the characters in the video.
Parent Education/Involvement
Consider showing the video and discussing the BeCool strategy at parent meetings, open houses, PTA meetings, etc.
Return to: Lesson 1: Independent Activities