Tactics For Dealing With a Community Bully: True Leaders Do Not Need to Use Bullying Tactics

Every community has a bully; many have other community members who appear loyal to that bully, as well.

Distinguishing between a true leader and a bully is vital for the well-being, happiness and survival of any community. It can prove to be the first step, as well as the basis of tactics for dealing with a community bully and his or her followers.

“Information about bullying in communities” suggests "bullying is an infringement of an individual's rights" and that "a community or organization which condones or ignores bullying loses respect."

While there are powerful community leaders who influence community members in a positive and constructive, proactive way, unfortunately community bullies influence a community in a negative, destructive and adverse manner.

What are some of the tactics for dealing with a community bully? Consider the following suggestions.

Identify the community bully:

Identifying a community bully is not always easy. Once identified, contending with him or her may prove difficult for the community. The community bully appears to have control over the community, but this control may be rooted in fear, whereas a true leader will have natural charisma that attracts people and leads them into action and freedom, rather than non-action and bondage. A community bully will attempt to keep others subservient to him or her, whereas a true community leader is more likely to assume the subservient role for the community.          

Identify the community members who are following the bully:

Identifying the community members who are following a bully can help a community to deal with him or her. A community bully may attempt to coerce or force community members to follow him or her, even use life-threatening measures by groups of community members. A true leader does not need coercion to obtain a following. Care, concern and compassion for others manifest in a kind and loving manner draws followers to a true leader.

Promote community awareness:

A community made aware of the difference between a true leader and a pseudo or false leader can breathe a sigh of relief. Divesting itself of a community bully may not always easy. It may take ingenuity, action and effort on the part of the true leader and his or her following. No one really likes a community bully and in time, a community bully will realize that a movement towards positive change is happening and that his or her days are numbered.

Establish peace as a community priority:

A community bully may attempt to force community members into subtle or open warfare in order to attempt to obtain, retain or regain his or her status. A true leader will lead community members towards a peaceful resolution of community issues and take measures that will lead to and maintain peace.

Setting a goal of peace in a community and taking positive action in that direction together as a community, often proves to be instrumental in establishing peace and eradicating community bully tactics.