Overview
If someone teases you at school, instead of feeling hurt right away, you pause and think about how you want to react. You realize that it's your choice to feel upset or to let it go, which can change how you feel.
The Choice
Bjorn must choose between standing up for Hana or staying silent.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.704545454545457
- Word Count
- 372 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Bjorn and Hana are in the school cafeteria when Bjorn overhears some classmates teasing Hana about her new haircut. They say it's "weird" and "uncool." Bjorn feels torn. On one hand, he wants to stand up for Hana, showing loyalty and friendship. On the other hand, he worries about becoming the target of teasing himself if he speaks up. He knows that how he reacts will shape how he feels about himself and his friendship with Hana. The teasing continues, and Hana looks visibly upset. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) Stand up for Hana and risk being teased himself, or (B) stay silent to avoid becoming a target but feel guilty for not helping his friend.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Stand up for Hana
Stay silent to avoid teasing
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How does choosing our reaction affect the outcome here?
- 3
What are the consequences of standing up or staying silent?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?
- 5
Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
