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Bullying is repeated negative treatment involving intentional harm or humiliation of another person, typically an adolescent. A single aggressive act, such as one child hitting another on the playground, does not constitute bullying. The key distinction is that bullying occurs repeatedly over time, creating a pattern of interpersonal aggression with lasting consequences for victims and bystanders.

Boys tend to engage in direct, physical aggression such as physically harming others, while girls typically engage in indirect, social forms of aggression like spreading rumors, ignoring, or socially isolating others. These gender differences reflect broader patterns in how boys and girls express aggression within social contexts and peer relationships.

Bullying involves three parties: the bully, who holds more power physically, emotionally, or socially; the victim, who experiences harm or humiliation; and bystanders or witnesses, who observe the behavior. This power imbalance is central to bullying, as the bully benefits from boosted self-esteem while victims and bystanders experience negative consequences.

Victims of bullying experience decreased mental health, including anxiety and depression. They may also underperform academically in schoolwork. In severe cases, bullying can result in victims committing suicide, making it a serious public health concern for adolescents and their overall well-being.

Cyberbullying is repeated harmful behavior conducted through technology and social media, typically covert and anonymous. The bully can hide behind a screen while the victim feels helpless and unable to escape harassment. This anonymity gives bullies power while leaving victims unable to retaliate, creating a unique form of psychological harm.

Children who are emotionally reactive, different from their peers, or belong to marginalized groups face higher bullying risk. This includes children who are overweight, cognitively impaired, or racially or ethnically different from their peer group. Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender teens are at very high risk due to their sexual orientation.

Teachers can intervene when they notice bullying and hold bullies accountable. Bystanders can help victims by garnering a network of support and encouraging them that they are not alone and do belong. This collective action demonstrates that victims have connection and community, reducing the isolation bullying creates.