Bullying
Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the form of physical contact, words or more subtle actions.
The bullied individual typically has trouble defending him or herself and does nothing to “cause” the bullying.
Adapted from the APA Public Interest Bullying Fact Sheet
What You Can Do
- Beware of cyberbullying
Learn what cyberbullying is, its impact and what you can do if the victim is you or your child.
- Stop office bullying
Kids aren't the only bullies. Bullying also occurs in the workplace. Learn more about the strategies employers are using to put a stop to this destructive practice.
Getting Help
- Find a Psychologist
- School Bullying is Nothing New, But Psychologists Identify New Ways to Prevent It
Systematic international research has shown school bullying to be a frequent and serious public health problem. But psychologists are using this research to develop bullying prevention programs that are being implemented in schools around the world.
News
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Bullies on bullying: Why we do it
August 26, 2010, MSNBC
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How to bully-proof young girls
August 25, 2010, TIME Magazine
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Victims of bullying may suffer academically
August 23, 2010, U.S. News & World Report
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Young teens may underestimate bullying
August 14, 2010, USA TODAY
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Who is likely to become a bully, victim or both?
July 8, 2010
Monitor on Psychology Articles
- Stay safe in practice
April 2008
- Preventing harassment at schools
March 2008
Books
- Bullying Prevention
October 2005
- Blue Cheese Breath and Stinky Feet: How to Deal With Bullies
March 2004
APA Offices and Programs
- Bullying: A Module for Teachers
It is estimated that 40% to 80% of school-age children experience bullying at some point during their school careers and 10-15% may be either chronic victims or bullies themselves. In light of such statistics and growing public concern, this module will help teachers gain a better understanding of bullying and what they can do to both prevent it and intervene when it occurs.
- Violence Prevention
This area of Public Interest is responsible for disseminating research-based knowledge and information on violence and injury prevention.