Unfortunately, kids are not alone in the constant bullying of other children; adults are more than happy to do it, too. In another context, I am reminded of Lou Holtz’ comment admonishing his players “Don’t tell others your troubles; 80 percent don’t care and the 20 percent that do care actually are enjoying the fact you have troubles.” Its the 20 percent that do the bullying of all ages that scare me. The churches need to stress this, but unfortunately, they are losing their audience. Without the slightest evidence, I would imagine what happened here is she met this guy online, found he was the first to say nice things and be interested in her, and decides she will do anything to meet him. I would suspect it may have been an accident on his part then in a panic he convinces a girlfriend to help him cover up, but it in no way excuses an adult contacting a 13-year old nor burying the poor girl in a ditch in some forest. My heart goes out to three families in this situation; they must be devastated.
Young women, even the most beautiful are insecure. Unfortunately, they get in too deep and quickly. I suspect that is what happened to the young lady that joined ISIS recently.
Sadly, you are probably right about why she snuck out to meet him.
And there are far too many adults and children who have been taught to be victims. Any adult who complains of being verbally bullied is pretty hopeless, IMO.
There was a time when parents taught their children proper behavior and respect for others. But they also taught their children how to deal with bullies and not to play victim.
I am not talking about physical assaults, as that is an entirely different story.