Why the Phrase “Snitches Get Stitches” Is So Dangerous

Most of us have heard the phrase “snitches get stitches.” It is often said casually, joked about, or passed down as a rule of loyalty.

But pause for a moment and really think about what that phrase teaches children.

It teaches silence over safety. Fear over responsibility. Compliance over compassion.

What many people fail to understand is that reporting harm is not snitching. When someone speaks up to protect themselves or others, they are seeking safety, not punishment.

The Reality of Bystanders and Bullying

Research consistently shows that bystander intervention is far less common than it should be. Many students witness bullying, harassment, or harmful behavior and choose not to report it or intervene.

Schools and organizations work hard to encourage students to speak up, yet the fear of being labeled a “snitch” often outweighs the desire to do what is right.

This culture of silence does not exist by accident. It is rein...

Kids are more in tune with world affairs than you might realize. As a matter of fact, there has been a rise in minors using Twitter to keep up with the news.  

While it’s great that they’re interested in staying up to date, kids can get more and more anxious and fearful. 

So, although they might seem ok or unphased about what’s going on, start asking questions. The first thing you want to know is how much they know.

Before you start this conversation with them, consider a game plan. You might be surprised about what they could tell you. 

✅  First of all, ask open-ended questions. Example: What have your friends been sharing about the conflict in Ukraine? How do you and your friends feel about the school shootings in the U.S.? 

✅  Validate their feelings. Kids have a right to feel what they feel because their emotions are real to them.  

✅  Answer their questions with the truth. When you do this, adjust your language to their age appropriateness. Sometimes when we give too much i...