I was bullied in grade school. My parents told me to fight back. It really wasn’t that simple. They (multiple boys) just came back harder and with greater numbers.
I outgrew them in height and reach one summer and I had zero problems afterward. I’m lucky, as no one would tussle with me now, either. But it’s really not as simple as fighting back, even with a stick.
You’re right, although it is a possible suggestion.
I had plenty trouble with girls and some boys picking on me because I wasn’t attractive enough even in elementary. I was not raised that way at all, and was largely too meek to ever hurt anyone or even insult them back. However, if 1 of my genuine bullies actually attacked me, I may have turned on her. And I don’t think my parents would have minded.
Kids today do not fight like we used to. They like to gang up on one, basically because they are bullies AND Cowards.