What is Bullying?
Bullying is defined as repeated, intentional psychological and/or physical intimidation.
There are several distinguishing characteristics that are hallmarks of bullying, including:
- Repeated/Persistent behavior, whereas aggression may be a one-time occurrence.
- Intentional behavior, not merely clueless or unintentional.
- Directed at a target (s), not generalized.
- Harms the target(s) – stress-related physical health complications, psychological/emotional injuries, economic damages, etc.
Typical tactics used by bullies include, but are not limited to:
- Demands/threats
- Name-calling/swearing
- Mockery/sarcasm
- Severe/nasty tone of voice
- Insults/put-downs/personal
- Yelling attacks
- Constantly interrupting
- Public humiliation
- Finger-pointing
- Spreading gossip or lies
- Invading another’s space
- Unrelenting/persistent criticism
- Looming/hovering over
- Isolation/exclusion/ostracism
- Slamming objects
*Flyers with this content as well as other self help resources are available through Staff Omubuds.