However, it’s important to recognize that bully can come in many different forms.
These types of bullying often overlap.
Bullies frequently use more than one form to abuse a victim.
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Moreover, bullying isn’t limited to kids and teenagers.
Adults can also be guilty of bullying, too.
It can take a heavy toll on victims, so spotting the signs and taking action is crucial.
What Exactly Is Bullying?
One of the most noteworthy components of bullying is an imbalance of power between the bully and the victim.
It can also extend to inappropriate hand gestures or stealing or breaking a victims' belongings.
Studies have shown that boys are more likely to be involved in physical bullying than girls.
Some research suggests that such differences stem from gender differences in socialization.
Boys are socialized to use direct aggression, whereas girls are socialized to express aggression indirectly.
Verbal Bullying
Verbal bullying involves usingspoken or written words to insult or intimidatea victim.
It includes name-calling, teasing, and even threats.
One study found that verbal bullying was the most common form of bullying.
Verbal bullying isn’t always easy to recognize because it often takes place when authority figures aren’t around.
Moreover, a bully can pass it off as good-natured ribbing between friends.
As a result, it can be difficult for the victim to prove.
Therefore, this form of bullying can become a long-term source of stress and anxiety.
Unlike more overt types of bullying, it is especiallysly and insidiousbecause it involves social manipulation.
Relational bullying is often associated with so-called “mean girls.”
Relational bullying can lead toisolation,loneliness, depression, and social anxiety.
This may be because the severity of relational bullying is more challenging to detect.
In-person bullying is still more prevalent than cyberbullying butcyberbullyingis a growing problem.
Sexual Bullying
Sexual bullying and harassment are remarkably widespread.
Meanwhile,sexting, sending or receiving sexually explicit messagesor images between electronic devices, is becoming increasingly common.
How Common Is Bullying?
Even people who simply observe bullying can experience issues, including mental health difficulties and increased substance use.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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