Independent views By Brendan Horan

Bullying – be it in the school grounds, the work place, or as recently in the House of Representatives – is not to be tolerated.

Bullies become so entrenched in their own misplaced realities they are often in denial their behaviours are bullying and harmful.

Bullying behaviours can be physical, verbal or social, or as indirect as creating rumours, manipulation, snide undermining remarks or innuendos. Bullying is about perceived power and position; it is about creating an image of power and maintaining it over others.

Classic signs of adult bullying include snide remarks to undermine team members, blaming others for mistakes, yet quick to take credit for successes, negative gossip, constant questioning and unreasonable demands, demeaning and intimidating comments, pointing out flaws (real or imagined) and calling others less than intelligent.

Bullies will often disappear and withdraw from those who publically confront their behaviours, until the crisis is over and then return or pick up from where they left off.

Bullying is preventable. Personally I stand against bullying. I am a ‘Bully Buster', be it leading citizens, employers, youth leaders or children in the playground. Join with me to expose bullying as unacceptable demeaning and harmful behaviour.

If you would like to discuss this or any other issues please contact me.

Facebook.com/Brendan.horan.336 twitter.com/brendanhoran or Phone Brendan on 574 0253.