I've not read all of the replies but
You teach people how to treat you.
A dude used to pick me up and swing me around in highschool. It was embarrassing forme, he did it several times. I just ended up punching him once in the face. He was embarrassed and said "that was feeble" and walked off. He didn't do it again. I don't like fighting. I did feel great about myself after because I'd set a boundary.
You have to show your boundaries right off the bat. The first time something happens. It's harder after because it's happened for so long it becomes normal.
For the jokes, just dish it back to them as hard as they do it to you. Use common sense and judgment. So if he's a crazy drug dealer, be careful.
This is why it's so funny if a guy who never swears tells a bully to '**** off' and says it loud so everyone can hear it. It's unexpected. Maybe not wise but certainly lowers his percieved value.
GL |