resolution

3425. Prohibition of Bullying

2016 Book of Resolutions, #3425

Bullying is a behavioral expression of aggressiveness that attempts to yield power over another person(s) or people(s). This may be expressed by physical or psychological means. Bullying can result in the death of the victim. We have only to look at scripture for evidence. The Book of Esther is about the bullying of one man and the grace God expressed through God’s persons. The questioning, beating, and subsequent death on the cross of Jesus the Christ is the ultimate example of expressed abuse of power over a person, even the Son of God. Stephen and a host of Christian martyrs have suffered similar personal attacks that led to death for the cause of Christ. There are persons today who suffer and die because another person(s) seek to overwhelm them by aggressive behavior.

It is hereby resolved, that

In an effort to reduce bullying in society, United Methodist congregations will:

categorically oppose the practices of adult, youth, and child bullying, mobbing (also known as scapegoating);
diligently work to increase societal awareness of these destructive behaviors;
welcome teens and offer safe places for teens to gather;
post and widely distribute materials including contacts for hotlines and other local and national resources;
incorporate the topic of adolescent bullying into sermons, making clear the church’s position;
use language of responsibility and healing rather than blame and punishment;
encourage family members, neighbors, and friends who suspect or know of abuse to come forward;
provide education and training for clergy and laity on abuse prevention, detection, and intervention;
create and nurture peer groups for adolescents to raise awareness of the stresses in their own families and issues that are risk factors for abuse;
raise awareness about Internet bullying and peer pressure;
organize forums, inviting outside speakers, including survivors, abusers, and representatives of local and national organizations to facilitate discussions and encourage congregants to come forth about their own risk status; and
encourage congregant volunteers to organize and run support groups and foums.

ADOPTED 2004
AMENDED AND READOPTED 2012
RESOLUTION #3425, 2008, 2012 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION #188, 2004 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS

See Social Principles, ¶ 162.

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