What is Bullying?

Bullying is when someone intentionally does or says something to hurt another person. This behaviour is often repetitive and deliberate. Bullying can take many forms such as:

  • Physical Bullying – Hitting, slapping, shoving, tripping, spitting, throwing objects, blocking someone’s path; damaging, stealing or withholding someone’s property
  • Verbal Bullying – Insults, teasing, racism, threats, hurtful jokes
  • Social Bullying – Excluding someone from an activity or group, ignoring someone, talking about someone negatively behind their back, spreading rumours
  • Cyberbullying – Using technology such as cell phones and the internet to blackmail, threaten, intimidate, insult, spread rumours, post private/humiliating images or videos

Recognize the Signs

Warning signs that someone is being bullied can include:

  • Withdrawal from activities
  • Unexplained injuries
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Biological symptoms –pain, decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping
  • Signs of depression or anxiety
  • Always let your parents know where you are going and when you will be home.
  • Walk with a buddy or a group of friends.
  • Know your neighborhood and safe places to go if you need help.
  • Stay away from cars occupied by strangers. Do not approach a vehicle even if the occupant asks for help or directions.
  • Never flash money, bus passes, cell phones cameras or other possessions. Don’t tell people what you have in your locker.