Teasing is a normal and inevitable part of childhood. But when taunting becomes hurtful, intentional, and constant, it crosses the line into bullying. It can take the form of name-calling, threats, shoving, hitting, and extortion. Unfortunately, bullying is commonplace: Researchers estimate that some 25 percent of children are bullied at school, and 60 percent of them witness occurrences of bullying every day.

Unlike typical arguments, bullying has less to do with a conflict and more about a person or group’s struggle for power. Bullies often target people they believe don’t fit in, either because of their physical appearance or behaviors, for a variety of reasons. Some children act out because they are insecure or have been targets themselves. Others simply enjoy mistreating others. In fact, some research reveals that certain individuals may be wired for it: Brain scans of bullies suggest that their empathetic response seems to be overruled by the areas of the mind associated with pleasure, making them more likely to enjoy others’ pain or discomfort.

Both girls and boys participate in bullying, although they seem to take different approaches: Girls tend to engage in group teasing and psychological attacks, while boys are more apt to use physical violence. But no matter the sex, bullying takes a psychological—and sometimes, physical—toll on both aggressors and victims. Bullying has been linked with anxiety, depression, and even suicide.

Many children hide from adults the fact that they’re being tormented because they’re ashamed, afraid of being a “tattletale,” or worried that a parent’s intervention may make the situation worse. Symptoms of being bullied include a sudden drop in interest in school or grades, frequent nightmares, a change in appetite, and unexplained bruises or injuries. If a child says he or she is being bullied, experts recommend praising him or her for being honest and considering approaching the bully’s parents or school administrators. In some cases, legal action may be required; at least 16 states have passed laws to address bullying and harassment.

ADDITIONAL FACTS

  1. Today, children are becoming involved in cyber-bullying, or bullying via the Internet. This form can involve cruel texts, instant messages, or Web page posts.
  2. According to the World Health Organization, the rates of bullying tend to be consistent across the globe.
  3. Animals also bully each other; sheep and chickens, for example, intimidate each other to establish a social hierarchy.