Friday, April 16, 2010

A Smart Girl's Guide to Dealing With Middle School Boys

Anyone who has survived middle school will probably tell you that it's one of the most challenging phases of your life. In addition to the physical changes that accompany this time, there are also behavioral changes that are sometimes negative. While both boys and girls can develop a mean streak in middle school, boys often do so rather overtly-with loud, distracting and attention-seeking behavior.

Step 1
Give a disinterested reaction to teasing. Middle school boys are notorious for teasing their classmates. People often advise that the best reaction is to "just ignore" a person that teases you, but this can sometimes increase the level of teasing. The best reaction is to simply roll your eyes or shake your head to communicate that the teaser isn't even worth a full reaction.

Step 2
Talk to them. Sometimes middle school boys are simply insecure and what they really seek is your attention and approval rather than your nervous breakdown. Whether your goal is their acceptance as a friend, to get them to stop teasing you or to get one to ask you out, it helps to get the conversation ball rolling. This often breaks down barriers and reduces hostility.

Step 3
Remember the often-frustrating behavior of middle school boys is temporary. Although middle school boys can sometimes seem like wild animals let out of their cages, this behavior dissipates rapidly within a few years. By the time you reach high school, the same boy who teased you in middle school might be the one who asks you for help in Algebra or asks you to be his date for the dance.

Step 4
Get educated on the definitions of harassment and bullying. Some of these steps can help you cope with minor teasing from middle school boys, but harassment and bullying are different and much more serious issues. Read up on the definitions of verbal, physical and sexual harassment; and notify a parent, teacher or counselor if you're a victim of any of these behaviors.

Got a tip or question? Share it with us at info@girlz-rule.org today!

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