Calm First, Then Respond
What is a trigger?
Something that causes a strong emotional reaction.
What is one key difference between teasing and bullying?
Bullying involves a power imbalance and repeated behavior.
Assertive communication means saying it ______ and saying it ______.
Strong and calm.
Finish the formula: “I feel ___ when ___ because ___.”
Feeling, situation, reason.
What is a boundary?
A limit you set about what is okay and not okay for you.
Why is it important to calm your body before responding to conflict?
So you don’t react impulsively or escalate the situation.
True or False: Teasing is always bullying.
False.
Is assertive communication aggressive, passive, or respectful and confident?
Respectful and confident.
Which is an I-statement?
A) “You’re so annoying.”
B) “I feel frustrated when you interrupt me.”
B: "I feel frustrated when you interrupt me."
Why are boundaries important?
They protect your feelings, safety, and self-respect.
Name two body signals that tell you you’re getting upset.
Examples: fast heartbeat, clenched fists, hot face, tight chest, loud voice.
What is a power imbalance?
When one person has more power (social, physical, popularity, age, etc.) than the other.
Give an example of an assertive statement.
Examples: “Please stop.” “I don’t like that.” “That’s not okay with me.”
Why are I-statements helpful in conflict?
They focus on your feelings instead of blaming others.
True or False: Setting boundaries is rude.
False.
Name one strategy to calm your body quickly.
Deep breathing, counting to 10, grounding, positive self-talk, walking away.
If someone makes a joke once and stops when asked, is that more likely teasing or bullying? Why?
Teasing — because it stopped and didn’t involve repeated harm.
What is the goal of assertive communication?
To express your feelings and needs clearly without hurting others.
Turn this into an I-statement: “Stop making fun of me.”
“I feel hurt when you make fun of me. Please stop.”
If someone ignores your boundary after you state it, what is a safe next step?
Walk away, seek help from a trusted adult, document it.
What could happen if you respond while still angry?
You might say something hurtful, escalate the situation, or get into trouble.
If someone repeatedly targets another student who feels unable to defend themselves, what is that?
Bullying.
Why is assertive communication more effective than aggressive communication?
It reduces conflict, keeps you in control, and increases the chance of being heard.
What is one mistake people make when using I-statements?
Still blaming (“I feel like you’re a jerk”), using sarcasm, or not staying calm.
What is one way to communicate a boundary?
Use an assertive I-statement.