How to Introduce Bullies to Positive Role Models

(476 Words)
Bullies often emulate behavior they have seen in the past from role models that were far from positive. By giving them positive role models instead, teachers, parents and others may be able to help bullies modify their behavior to become more positive, empathic and productive. There are various strategies that can be utilized to introduce bullies to positive role models
First, one must find the role models that may be meaningful to the bully. These role models come in many different forms and will vary based on the background and personal issues of the bully. For bullies that come from disadvantaged circumstances, one may look to a community program such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. In this program children are teamed up with someone who can provide a positive influence in their lives. Many of the big brothers and sisters come from disadvantaged situations themselves, and some of them have experience with children who may be resistant to help.
Try to find someone to which the bully will look up. For instance, the bully may love to play sports, and a role model that excels in sports may be the answer. Look to people that you know to see if anyone would be willing to work with the bully. It may be an older child, a friend or a family member.
It may also be beneficial to find someone to whom the bully can relate. The bully will often be someone who was bullied or abused himself. He may have come from difficult circumstances. Again, think about the people that you know.
Many schools have mentorship programs. They may pair a younger student with an older one. A younger student who is a bully may find a positive role model in the older student.
The actual introduction of the bullies to the role models may take many forms. In some cases, the role model will be someone who is famous, and there will not any actual physical introduction. It may be a sports star who came from a hard background himself who overcame it to make a positive difference in people’s lives. You may share the story of this person with the bully. It may be someone who has talked about being a bully in the past but has since moved on to be a positive influence to others. These people may share their stories in biographies or on television, which you can share with the bully.
The introduction may occur as part of a formal program such as the aforementioned Big Brothers Big Sisters. You may also set up times that the bully can meet with the new role model for some positive interaction such as going to a sports game or just hanging out.
Positive role models can turn bullies into compassionate and empathetic people. The above tips can help you create these connections.