Bullying

Bullying is a common experience for many children and adolescents. Types of bullying include teasing, ignoring, or intentionally hurting another child. Harassment and sexual harassment are also considered forms of bullying. Bullies may be large and aggressive, but they can also be small and cunning. Victims of bullying have poor self-confidence and typically avoid the bully as a reaction to threats.

Children who bully want power over others. Both bullies and their victims feel insecure in school. Boys typically use physical intimidation to bully others, whereas girls bully in a less obvious manner. Girls typically use social intimidation to exclude others from peer interactions.

It is important to reach out to your child’s school and report ALL bullying.

Learn more about bullying in the Children’s Mental Health Matters Bullying Fact Sheet.