“Power” has many components. Certainly, it can be a way to bring about change for the greater societal good. Power is often defined as the capacity to influence others' behavior.
But not all persons who are powerful seek to spread goodwill. In fact, society today is full of persons who use power to intimidate others. They’re known variously as bullies, tyrants, oppressors, persecutors, intimidators, tough guys, tormenters, or thugs.
Whatever the label, people who use power for selfish gain try to make others feel small, afraid, and powerless. A reason for an intimidator’s behavior might be as simple as a desire to be liked. Sometimes tough guys are angry or frustrated, or they may have been bullied by someone else.
Types of intimidation include physical, verbal, and relational.
Since using power in negative ways is a learned behavior, can’t behaviors be changed? So what do suburban youth think can be done to protect others from tormentors?
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