LIFE

I have a huge problem and her name is Heather. Heather is a frenemy. I sit next to her in Spanish class and whenever I try to sit down, she’ll pull my chair out from beneath me. And whenever I get up, she pushes the chair into the back of my knees, making me fall again. She always talks when the teacher is talking and copies my homework. I tell her all the time to stop doing these things, but no matter what I say, she won’t stop. I’m getting really fed up with her bullying. I’ve already told my dad and he has no ideas. How can I get her to stop?

-SuNsHiNe

How annoying! She seems like she’s just trying to get attention, honestly—either from people around you who might get a laugh out of it, or you. Unfortunately, that’s definitely not the way to get positive attention from anyone.

If you want to be her friend, but she’s just being too annoying, talk to her about it. Tell her firmly, “Seriously, if you want to be my friend, you have to stop. It’s really annoying.” If she doesn’t stop, or if you don’t want to be her friend, try to avoid her as much as possible. Don’t sit near her in class anymore (ask your teacher to move your seat if you need to). Also, branch out and try to make other friends with people who will treat you right.

And don’t be afraid to speak up! You could seriously get hurt one day with the antics that she pulls. If talking to her doesn’t work and ignoring her doesn’t work, let your teachers know about it. You’re not being a tattletale, you’re just looking out for your own safety. What if a teacher catches her cheating off of you and you’re blamed as an accomplice? What if one day you fall off your chair and sprain your ankle? Stand up to her bullying and let her know she has to stop!

4/22/2008 12:00:00 AM