Bullying for Dummies

Bullying is a word that we use to describe a behavior that can happen between people, usually when one person wants to have power or control over another person. It's kind of like when someone picks on another person or tries to hurt their feelings or make them feel scared or unsafe. When we talk about bullying, we usually mean that this behavior is repeated over time, not just a one-time thing. It can happen in different places, like at school, on the playground, or even online.

Bullying can take different forms, like physical bullying, where someone uses their body or physical force to hurt or intimidate another person. It could be hitting, pushing, or even taking someone's things without permission. There is also verbal bullying, which happens when someone uses words, like saying mean or hurtful things, spreading rumors, or making fun of someone's appearance or abilities.

Another form of bullying is social or relational bullying. This happens when someone tries to hurt another person by excluding them from a group or spreading lies or rumors about them to turn others against them. It's like when you're playing a game, and someone purposely doesn't let you join or hangs out with others but leaves you out.

Lastly, there is cyberbullying, which is bullying that happens online or through technology. This can include sending mean messages, posting hurtful comments or pictures, or spreading rumors or embarrassing information about someone on social media platforms, websites, or through text messages. It's like when someone says mean things about you online where others can see it, or they keep bothering you through messages.

So, when we say "bullying," we mean the repeated behavior of someone trying to hurt, intimidate, or gain power over another person, and it can happen in different ways like physically, verbally, socially, or through online means. The most important thing to remember is that bullying is not okay, and everyone deserves to be treated with respect, kindness, and fairness.