Today, as in years past, teasing, fights and confrontations are all part of growing up. For some these are normal cases that occur every day, but for others it is a serious problem. The situation becomes tiring for many and takes a bad turn in the direction. It's no longer just a heated interaction. It takes the form of tormenting, verbally abusing or intentionally trying to threaten the younger or perceived weaker child. Bullying behavior occurs all over the world and in almost all segments of society. It normally begins during the early years of education, often intensifies when the same children become teenagers. Bullies are aggressive in nature and view those who are shy and weak as easy targets. Victims of bullying are often unable to defend themselves or react on their own, so it is imperative that bullying is stopped in its early stages. Over the years, bullying has become an ever-growing problem. More and more children are becoming victims of this often tragic problem, now more than ever. Bullying has been defined by many people and in many ways. According to stopbullying.gov, the definition is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-age children involving a real or perceived power imbalance (US DHHS). The key word in that definition is power. Bullies thrive on perceived power or control over the victim that makes them invincible. Bullying is a very harmful act for those targeted and must be stopped immediately. In order for this problem to be corrected, workable solutions need to be put in place. Bullying can happen anywhere, anytime. In schools it can occur in courtyards, in the canteen, in corridors and even in the classroom. Bullying is a serious thing and has recently led many......middle of paper......ion, to say that kids who don't conform to society's expectations bring their own problems (Goldman). This statement is beyond disturbing. This is the same thinking that occurs with crime victims. They blame themselves for bad things that have happened. Bullying is a problem that only gets bigger the longer we hide from it. We all share the responsibility to work together and help our children and students live in a safe environment. Students who witness bullying must act accordingly. Be sure to let a teacher or school administrator know if you see someone being bullied. Reporting the bully is embarrassing for the bully and will hopefully discourage future action. Don't be afraid to speak up. For victims of bullying, you are not alone in this fight. Don't be afraid to react and alert those in power when problems exist.