Bullying?

It is a term that gets thrown around a lot recently. But what does it mean?

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance

In order to be considered bullying the behavior must:

• Be aggressive
• Must have an imbalance of power such as physical strength, access to embarrassing information, etc.
• Repetition: behavior must occur more than once

Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, exclusion

There are three types of bullying:

• Verbal: teasing, name-calling, inappropriate sexual comments, taunting, threats
• Social: hurting relationships or reputation on purpose
• Physical
•  

Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs over digital devices and social media

Why is it a topic of great concern recently?

Kids who are bullied can experience depression, anxiety, changes in sleep and eating patterns which often persist into adulthood

Bullying can occur among adults as well

However, adult brand of bullying is more subtle. It can include political backstabbing, silent treatment, publicly belittling or humiliating someone, social ostracism or undermining him or her.

What can you do if you or someone you know is being bullied?

Just recognizing the bullying can go a long way. Just knowing it is not your fault but rather the behavior of a bully can provide comfort and validation. It can help to see a therapist. It can help to stay away from the person who is bullying you.

Do you know a bully? Do you know someone who is being bullied?

LAMSA’s note: Please talk about! Ask for help!

We would like to thank Dr Claudine for her collaboration