Bullies and other stuff

[gymgurl]

Ok, We had a lecture on cyber bullying the other day and it got me thinking, Hypothetically speaking what should one do if they are getting bullied by a team mate? This bullying does not take place in the gym where the coach may catch them in the act, but rather over various social networking accounts. This bullying takes form in fake accounts pretending to be a person that doesn't exist and doing various things, prank calling, accusations, turning the whole squad against you and various other little things

Secondly, This is for a friend (not even in gymnastics but i think you guys could help)

Ok, she suspects an injury but is scared to speak up as it may be "career" ending but if she doesn't she risks more damage and more pain later what should she do?

 

[gymnastbeth]

Can't answer the first question, but. You're friend should stop the activity if she's really hurt! She has her whole life to do stuff, but only one body. It is a BAD idea to train anything in pain. End of story.

 

[gymgurl]

Please guys i really want some advice for the first question!

Thanks in advance

 

[MaryA]

I think that you need to talk to a caring adult about that one... preferably parent or coach, but even a counselor or teacher might be able to help. It needs to be stopped and I don't think this is something you can (or should have to) handle on your own. Was it a teacher from school who lead the presentation on cyber-bullying? Chances are (hopefully) he or she has had some training in this area and can help you figure out how to move forward. For now, I would say to be sure you keep everything you get from this person... print emails, facebook posts, etc. Keep a journal detailing things that this person said or did to you. Ultimately, it's going to come down to this person saying "I didn't do that!" or "I was just kidding around!" and the more "evidence" you have, the more people will take you seriously. But DON'T put off talking to someone about it. Do that NOW. Hope this helps. Many hugs as you deal with this difficult situation...

 

[Deleted member D3987]

they have IT detectives for this kind of thing at your local police department. if it's that serious then that's where this needs to be taken. sooner rather than later. if it's serious...get moving.

 

[Shoebug]

If these actions are affecting the DESIRE to be at that gym and around the instigators, than maybe you should let the coach know. Yeah yeah yeah, it would be mortifying, but you need to look out for you. Do you think your coach would condone such behavior? Are there any other gyms that you could train at?

As for speaking to the person that presented the information, I think that discussing it with him/her is a very good idea. Often times, they have received extensive training in sensitivity of the issues, and are confidential in their discussions. They may be able to provide resources local to you, and possible ways to de-escalate the situation.