What is bullying?

FAQ: Isn’t bullying just kids being kids?

Bullying is not a normal part of growing up. It’s true bullying has always existed and has been accepted by society as normal childhood behaviour in the past. However, we now understand how harmful it is. It leads to children feeling lonely, anxious and unsafe. They may be often absent from school and can develop learning difficulties. Bullying can result in long-term emotional harm. Every child has the right to feel safe and be safe. As a teacher you have a duty of care to ensure their safety and to respond appropriately when bullying occurs. Being able to recognise bullying is the first skill you need if you are to do this effectively.

Types of bullying behaviour

Bullying can be physical, verbal or social. It takes place in person and online. Current campaigns aimed at raising awareness of cyberbullying might lead you to believe it is the most prevalent form of bullying children are exposed to. This isn’t so. Traditional or playground or face-to-face bullying is still more prevalent than cyberbullying. Almost all students who are cyberbullied are also bullied face-to-face. Teasing, spreading rumours and deliberately causing someone to feel left out are the most common among young people but the least recognised by adults.

Your definition of bullying

Sometimes the child who is being bullied may not recognise this is what’s happening. Write a definition of bullying you can use to explain to children to help them understand what bullying is. You might like to share your definition with everyone in the comments and invite feedback.