Bullying Versus Other Conflicts
It is important to distinguish bullying from other unkind, mean and harmful behavior. Calling someone a name or pushing someone once, being rude or having an argument with someone is not bullying. Of course, these behaviors should be addressed but may have different consequences and interventions, which is why the distinction is critical.
To be defined as bullying, all three components must be present:
- repeated actions or threats
- a power imbalance and
- intention to cause harm.
If bullying is identified correctly, there are various ways to address it.
The key point is that bullying is targeted, intentional, and repetitive; it is a pattern of behaviors that harms a child.
