This article in our series for Anti-Bullying Week 2023 looks at the role of those who follow and support bullies. Why would anyone want to cheer on a bully or support their harmful behaviour? We will explore this issue and examine some of the reasons why some people encourage bullies and provide a supportive environment for bullying.
What is a Follower of Bullying?
A follower of bullying is more than just a bystander and it can be difficult to understand what motivates those who associate with bullies. A follower takes an active role in the bullying by cheering on the bully, laughing at and ridiculing the target of bullying and generally showing support for the bully’s actions. By acting in this way, a follower is just as much part of the problem as the bully.
Why Would Someone Support a Bully?
Studies have found that helpful behaviour is contagious and people will often replicate a good deed done to them by doing something positive for someone else (the ‘pay it forward’ concept). Unfortunately, this also applies to bad behaviour, and this is one of the reasons why people follow, and even copy, bullying behaviour. It is a type of ‘social contagion’ which spreads through social interaction. Therefore, by observing the bully’s aggressive behaviour and regarding it as a show of strength, a follower will justify their desire to be part of the bully’s inner circle.
There are other reasons why people follow bullies:
- They regard the bully as a positive influence because they are strong/popular/aggressive.
- They receive protection from the bully for supporting them.
- They view bullying as acceptable and a normal part of life.
- They receive an elevated status among their peers due to their friendship with the bully.
- They believe they will become the next target if they stop supporting the bully.
How to Stop Being a Follower of Bullies
A follower and supporter of bullying needs to acknowledge the impact their behaviour has on the target of the bullying. It is not a harmless activity or a bit of fun. Remember — bullying is not a normal part of growing up, and bullying is not a rite of passage! Bullying is an abhorrent, aggressive type of behaviour which is carried out with the specific aim of deliberately intimidating and abusing another person physically or emotionally. As such, bullying must not be tolerated.
It is not acceptable to join in or cheer a bully or give any indication of supporting them. If someone is doing this, they are also guilty of bullying! The theme of ABW23 is ‘make a noise about bullying’ in a positive way. Followers can make a huge difference by changing their behaviour. It takes courage to stop supporting a bully, especially if the bully and follower have been friends for a long time. However, we all need to take individual responsibility for stamping out bullying. If followers remove their support from the bully, it will make it easier for the target to get the help they need.
Bullying Resources
Bullying — A Complete Approach
Contains hints and tips for teachers, parents and young people to enable them to identify and tackle bullying.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 94
- Illustrated throughout
Ebook: £10.99 
Hard copy: £35.99 add to basket
Bullying in the Workplace
This pack provides guidance for companies on tackling workplace bullying, supporting the targets of bullying and ensuring the wellbeing of staff.
- Focus: Anti-bullying policies for businesses
- Category: Businesses
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 50
- Illustrated throughout
Ebook: £8.99
Hard copy: £25.99 add to basket