Bullying happens when an individual intentionally uses actions or words against someone or groups with the intention to cause distress. The target of bullying is usually someone perceived as weak or vulnerable and therefore not able to stop it from happening.
Bullying can happen in person or over digital platforms, and therefore it can be obvious (overt) or hidden (covert). It also happens to be a repeated behavior or has the potential to be repeated over time. It usually has an immediate, medium, and long-term effect on those involved.
There are four main types of bullying, including;
Physical. This type of bullying involves physically hurting another person, damaging, or stealing their belongings. It is evidenced through hitting, shoving, intimidating, and threatening violence.
Verbal/written. This involves insulting, name-calling, or referencing a physical attribute, characteristic, or quality to hurt another person.
Social. Also known as emotional or social bullying; includes excluding someone, spreading rumors that can have harmful effects, and damaging a person's reputation.
Cyberbullying. This form of bullying occurs online and can be verbal or written. It can include threats of violence, sharing of images and videos. There are other specific forms of bullying like racial and homophobic, and transphobic bullying, which share many similarities with the types of bullying mentioned before.
This 3-minute, online quiz can be used if you think your child is having emotional, attentional, or behavioral difficulties.
Need to find a therapist near you? Check out the Monarch Directory by SimplePractice to find licensed mental health therapists with availability and online booking.