Bullying is a distinctive pattern of repeatedly and deliberately harming and humiliating others, specifically those who are smaller, weaker, younger or in any way more vulnerable than the bully. The deliberate targeting of those of lesser power is what distinguishes bullying from garden-variety aggression .
What Is Bullying? (Plain Language Explanation)
Bullying refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Bullying
- Symptoms: The specific ways bullying shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen bullying
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When bullying occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Bullying
- Bullying is far more common than most people realize
- Bullying is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with bullying see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about bullying is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing bullying, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.