Prejudicial bullying is based on prejudices people have toward people of different races, religions or sexual orientation.
Here is an overview of three types of prejudicial bullying.
Racist Bullying
Although this country has made great strides in race relations, racism still exists. As a result, racist bullying is still an issue in schools. Racist bullying singles out people because of skin colour, race or ethnic background. When racist bullying occurs, children are taunted by peers, called names or excluded from the group because of hatred, fear or lack of understanding. In some instances, racist bullying may cause children to be embarrassed of their ethnic background.
Religious Bullying
Lack of knowledge and understanding about the traditions, beliefs and etiquette of different faiths can lead to religious bullying. In general, bullies target them because they are different. As a result, kids are taunted and teased about their religious beliefs. Many times, bullying results because of preconceived ideas or a lack of understanding about the differences between religions. These differences can include everything from beliefs, fasting and prayer practices to the type of clothing they wear. Bullies point to these differences as a reason to harass and target the victim.
LGBT Bullying
LGBT bullying, or anti-gay bullying, refers to being picked on, or physically or verbally harassed, because of a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. LGBT bullying also can include name-calling, sexual bullying and cyber bullying. This type of bullying affects people in LGBT community as well as those who are perceived to be. In other words, kids do not have to be gay to experience LGBT bullying. In fact, sometimes kids are taunted and called names simply because of the way they act or dress. Meanwhile, other teens are bullied for being lesbians, homosexuals, bisexuals and transgender. They are treated like outcasts and often ostracized from groups. They endure comments and sometimes even violence
There is also bullying because of physical differences such as physical and mental disabilities. People are also bullied because they are from different socio-economic backgrounds – sometimes the wealthy kids bully the poor kids and sometimes the poor kids bully the wealthy kids or take their belongings.
What to DO?
Do talk to someone about it, share your experience with friends or a similar group. Ask for help especially if you are being bullied because of a disability
Avoid the bully by staying out of his area
If it is not possible to avoid the bully, try to understand why he/she is behaving in that way. He/she is probably ignorant or they were brought up with certain beliefs.
What NOT to do?
Do not keep quiet and suffer alone.
Do not be ashamed or embarrassed about who you are and what you believe or feel.
Do not hurt yourself or isolate yourself from others.
