Q&A for How to Act in Front of a Friend when They Are Making Fun of You

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How do you handle teasing?

Leslie Bosch, PhD
Developmental Psychologist
Dr. Leslie Bosch is a Developmental Psychologist, National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, and Owner of Bosch Integrative Wellness. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in providing stress relief coaching services to individuals and groups using a variety of scientifically proven methods for change including motivational interviewing, positive psychology, self-compassion, non-violent communication, social learning theory, and self-determination theory. Dr. Bosch received training from the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona and earned a PhD in Human Development and Family Studies from The University of Arizona. She is also a member of the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching Association. Dr. Bosch has published many papers and been featured in the media numerous times.

Leslie Bosch, PhD

Developmental Psychologist

Expert Answer

I think your answer depends on how they're teasing you. If they're teasing you to be mean, you should set boundaries and be firm. On the other hand, if they're teasing you to get a rise out of you or to celebrate with you — because they wish they had a crush like yours too —, then maybe you can kind of tease them back and play along..

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Every time I hang out with my group of friends, they try to annoy me hiding my things. I have told them that I don't like it but they continue to make fun of me. Is this normal? Am I overreacting?

Tasha Rube, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Tasha Rube is a Licensed Social Worker based in Kansas City, Kansas. Tasha is affiliated with the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center in Leavenworth, Kansas. She received her Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Missouri in 2014.

Tasha Rube, LMSW

Licensed Master Social Worker

Expert Answer

Based on your explanation, it does not appear that they are very reliable and trustworthy friends. You have every right to feel the way that you do. Perhaps you need to move on and identify friends who do not make you feel bad.

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When a boy teases me, what should I say back?

Tasha Rube, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Tasha Rube is a Licensed Social Worker based in Kansas City, Kansas. Tasha is affiliated with the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center in Leavenworth, Kansas. She received her Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Missouri in 2014.

Tasha Rube, LMSW

Licensed Master Social Worker

Expert Answer

How you would respond would depend upon what type of teasing the boy is showing you. Is he teasing you in a friendly or unfriendly way? How does his teasing make you feel? What emotions are you internalizing when he does this? Regardless of the teasing, show your inner strength, and stand up for yourself in a respectful way. If you feel that this is bullying and it could lead to harm, then you need to seek help from a friend, family member, or someone you trust.

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What if they say something that really stings you and you just want to cry?

Tasha Rube, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Tasha Rube is a Licensed Social Worker based in Kansas City, Kansas. Tasha is affiliated with the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center in Leavenworth, Kansas. She received her Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Missouri in 2014.

Tasha Rube, LMSW

Licensed Master Social Worker

Expert Answer

Chances are, if it is making you this upset, it is not friendly teasing. This could be on the verge of bullying. Remain strong and confident. Respectfully request that they discontinue with the teasing. If they don’t then you probably need to remove this person and unhealthy relationship from your life.

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If you have kissed your friend in front of everyone and everyone is making fun of you, what should you do?

Tasha Rube, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Tasha Rube is a Licensed Social Worker based in Kansas City, Kansas. Tasha is affiliated with the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center in Leavenworth, Kansas. She received her Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Missouri in 2014.

Tasha Rube, LMSW

Licensed Master Social Worker

Expert Answer

Try your best to move on. While it might not seem like it right now, these situations or experiences do not last forever. People will forget and will move on to other things, as you should too.

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