One of the salient features of the Bravest Hearts is showing children their power as bystanders. These children who witness the poor behavior can learn to direct their attention and their support to the target of bullying.
The reason is two-fold. First, when all the attention goes to the target of the bullying behavior, it diminishes the power of the bullying behavior. Instead of feeling vulnerable, the targeted child feels supported. This is so important.
There is another very important aspect to this type of action. Children who witness bullying behavior often fear that the child who perpetrated the bullying behavior will turn their bullying attacks towards them. Sending friendly, bystander support towards the target avoids confrontation, and it also avoids giving reinforcement to bullying behavior.
