What is Bullying?

  • “[B]ullying is a damaging social process that is characterized by an imbalance of power driven by social (societal) and institutional norms. It is often repeated and manifests as unwanted interpersonal behaviour among students or school personnel that causes physical, social, and emotional harm to the targeted individuals or groups, and the wider school community.” (UNESCO)
  • Bullying is a form of abuse at the hands of peers that can take different forms at different ages. It involves the use of power, aggression, intimidation and shame by a person (or people) with more power against a person (or people) with less.
  • When a person is bullied about aspects of their social identity (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity, body size, disability), this is called identity-based bullying. This type of bullying is thought to be particularly harmful, because those who are targeted begin to feel that aspects of their self are devalued or not accepted by others.

Why is Bullying Harmful?

  • Bullying is a relationship problem, and unhealthy relationships can negatively impact development.
  • When children bully, they learn to use power and aggression to control and hurt others. The children who are being bullied can feel increasingly powerless and find themselves trapped in relationships in which they experience harm. The children who watch bullying happen learn how power and control are gained through use of intimidation and fear.
  • Bullying can cause serious social and mental health problems for both the children who bully and the children who are bullied. For example, bullying is associated with missing school, anxiety and depression. In some cases, bullying can be distressing enough to lead youth to contemplate suicide.
  • Because of this, adults must intervene and teach children how to connect with people respectfully, in positive, healthy ways. 

Helpful Resources

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