Bullying and the Connection to Gangs

Background:

Social relationships are an important part of a youth’s life. Peers and friends are key players in social relationships. Not all social relationships are positive. For some youth bullying and peer pressure are something they deal with everyday. Choosing friends wisely and recognizing misuse of power and inappropriate behaviours will help youth to make positive social relationships and help them stay away from gangs.

Gangs are often drawn to bullies or victims of bullies because of their low selfesteem. Additionally, they are drawn to bullies because of their violent tendencies.

Teaching Notes:

• Ask the class if they know what a bully is. Start at one end of the class and ask each student – what are some things bullies do? (i.e. say you’re dumb, push you, ignore you, take your money, talk about you behind your back…). After hearing everyone answer, ask the class if they have ever been bullied (show of hands). Using their facial expressions, show how it makes them feel. Now ask them if they have ever been a bully (show of hands). If being bullied makes you feel bad, is it right to bully others and make them feel bad?
• Bullies are often targets for gang recruitment. They often use violence for many different reasons and that is attractive to gangs. Bullies also make those they bully targets for gang recruitment by diminishing their self-esteem, leaving a void that needs to be filled. Have students watch the “Words Hurt” commercial - https://youtu.be/1j6YA03hm4k
• Conduct a discussion with the class that talks about gangs targeting people who have been hurt or hurt others.
• Have students write a journal entry that discusses why it is important to choose good friends and stay away from people who are bullies and in gangs.