Bullying is a widespread and serious problem that can happen anywhere. It is not something acceptable in the workplace or even in groups of friends. It is not a phase children have to go through, it is not "just messing around", and it is not something to grow out of. Bullying can cause serious and lasting harm.
Types and Forms of Bullying
Although definitions of bullying vary, most agree that bullying involves the following types:
- Imbalance of Power: people who bully use their power to control or harm people with less power
- Intent to Cause Harm: actions done by accident are not bullying; bullying has a goal to cause harm
- Repetition: incidents of bullying happen to the same person over and over by the same person or group
Bullying can take many forms. Examples include:
- Verbal: name-calling, teasing
- Social: spreading rumors, leaving people out on purpose, breaking up friendships
- Physical: hitting, punching, shoving
- Cyberbullying: using the Internet, mobile phones or other digital technologies to harm others
An act of bullying may fit into more than one of these groups.
Take the Bullying Quiz
How much do you know about bullying? Click here to find out.
Take a Stand Against Bullying
We challenge you to take a stand — don't be a bystander — to bullying. To do this, you can simply not join in when bullying is happening. Definitely do not stand around and watch someone being bullied. If you feel safe — and you definitely want to be responsible for your safety and well-being — tell the person to stop. You also want to make it clear that you do not support what is going on. Let the bully know that they are not in the majority and there are those who disagree.
At the very least, you can walk away and not join in — this takes their audience and their power away. Of course, we encourage you to tell someone — do not stay silent. Reach out to someone you trust to discuss the problem, especially if you feel like the person may be at risk of serious harm to themselves or others. Do not let them get away with this behavior again. If possible, let the person being bullied that you are here to help. Let them know that someone cares — that they have a hero!
Everyone has the right to feel safe in their community or on their campus. If you see someone being bullied, know that you have the power to stop it.
Work to Prevent Bullying
Bullying is less likely to occur when there are strong messages against it. Work with your campus, community, company or other groups to create and support these messages by:
- Getting involved with your company, community and campus to find ways to prevent bullying.
- Creating an assembly, performance, or event to spread the message.
- Teaching others that bullying is not okay and that they can stop bullying before it begins.
- Visiting StopBullying.gov and additional resources on this site to educate and empower yourself.
To Get Help
If you know someone who is thinking about hurting themselves, or you are yourself, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). It is there 24/7 and is free and confidential.
The Trevor Project is determined to end suicide among LBGT teens and young adults by providing resources and a nationwide, 24-hour hotline. If you are considering suicide or need help, call 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386) or visit their website.
To Get More
There are blog posts, related videos and downloadable documents below to educate and empower you to be an every|day hero against bullying. We will be constantly adding material to this website and welcome your thoughts, opinions and even submissions. To contact us, click here.
