Bullying

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have serious, lasting problems.In order to be considered bullying, the behavior must be aggressive and include:An Imbalance of Power: Kids who bully use their power—such as physical strength, access to embarrassing information, or popularity—to control or harm others. Power imbalances can change over time and in different situations, even if they involve the same people.Repetition: Bullying behaviors happen more than once or have the potential to happen more than once.

Prevention

Parents, school staff, and other caring adults have a role to play in preventing bullying. They can:Help kids understand bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids bullying is unacceptable. Make sure kids know how to get help.Keep the lines of communication open. Check in with kids often. Listen to them. Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns.Encourage kids to do what they love. Special activities, interests, and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior.Model how to treat others with kindness and respect.

Get Help Now

If you have done everything you can to resolve the situation and nothing has worked, or someone is in immediate danger, there are ways to get help.