The right way to stop a bully

[Spexxvet]

On an emotional level, it's satisfying to see the victim turn the tables. It's not so hard to see the metaphor - the big kid represents the huge American middle class, and the little one is the upper class just jab, jab, jabbing the middle class in the face, demanding that the middle class take on more tax burden, while laying them off and cutting their salaries and benefits. Then the middle class rises up and body slams the upper class. Yeah, that feels good.

But mature adults don't condone that behavior.

[Pete Zicato]

What I can't condone is a school that ignores bullying and then punishes the victim for fighting back.

Violence should be the last alternative. And I bet it was in this case.

If you want this kid to learn to handle problems without violence, you have to provide an environment in which that can occur.

[lookout123]

Originally Posted by Spexxvet

But mature adults don't condone that behavior.

No. Mature adults who live in a mythical land where calmly discussing our differences inevitably leads to conflict resolution and a healthy round of hugs don't condone that behavior.

The rest of us live in the real world where sometimes use of necessary and, in fact, desirable. I would much rather the little bully get jacked at this stage in his life and hopefully learn a lesson (doubtful with an apology seeking mother) rather than wait until he is older and the stakes and pain are much higher.

[Spexxvet]

Originally Posted by lookout123

No. Mature adults who live in a mythical land where calmly discussing our differences inevitably leads to conflict resolution and a healthy round of hugs don't condone that behavior.

The rest of us live in the real world where sometimes use of necessary and, in fact, desirable. I would much rather the little bully get jacked at this stage in his life and hopefully learn a lesson (doubtful with an apology seeking mother) rather than wait until he is older and the stakes and pain are much higher.

Of course you say you would, because you're a tough guy wanna be. When you could have shot the guy in the coffee shop, you didn't. You kicked him like a little girl. Poser.

[Pete Zicato]

Originally Posted by Spexxvet

But mature adults don't condone that behavior.

How do you think this should have gone and what would you expect the outcome to be?

Be specific.