From Bullied to Bold: Cherie White's Fight Against Bullying
Bullying and abuse are one in the same and they're all about power, and they're usually done by people who are weak on the inside.
What happens when someone turns their own painful experiences into a mission to help others? In this episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now', Cherie White, an anti-bullying advocate from Covington, Tennessee, shares her story of enduring severe bullying and gaslighting during her school years. As a sixth grader, Cherie faced relentless physical beatings, name-calling, and emotional abuse.
She describes how these experiences transformed her from a top student to someone struggling with anger and bitterness, even leading her to attempt suicide at fourteen. Cherie discusses the concept of 'poly-victimization', where she was not only bullied but also became a bully herself in a desperate attempt to regain some control over her life. She sheds light on the difference between bullying and general jerky behavior.
While jerky behavior is indiscriminate and directed at everyone, bullying is targeted and habitual, aimed at exerting power over a specific individual. Cherie emphasizes that bullying is about power dynamics. Bullies often feel weak inside and use their behavior to dominate others. This episode dives into the subtleties of passive-aggressive bullying, where covert attacks make the victim appear overly sensitive or paranoid, making it hard for them to defend themselves.
The long-term effects of bullying can be devastating, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. Cherie shares practical advice on healing from such trauma, including joining support groups, writing about one's experiences, and seeking therapy. These methods can help victims process their emotions and find a path to recovery. If you or someone you know is dealing with bullying, this episode offers valuable insights and support.
Tune in to hear Cherie's powerful story and learn how to combat bullying effectively.