Bullying
Bullying is the repeated act of intentionally hurting, intimidating, or excluding someone perceived as weaker or vulnerable. It can take various forms including physical, verbal, social, or written aggression. Bullying often occurs among peers and can seriously affect the victim’s emotional and social well-being.
Types of Bullying:
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Physical aggression (hitting, kicking)
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Verbal aggression (name-calling, teasing)
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Social exclusion and rumor-spreading
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Written aggression (threatening notes, graffiti)
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Sexual harassment
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Racial or ethnic harassment
Warning Signs:
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Irritability, anger, or aggressive behavior
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Blaming others and lack of empathy
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Avoidance of social situations
(StopBullying.gov, 2023; Olweus, 1993)
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse involves consistent behaviors that harm an individual’s self-worth or emotional well-being. This can include verbal assaults, humiliation, intimidation, or neglect. Emotional abuse can occur in family, school, or workplace settings.
Signs of Emotional Abuse:
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Low self-esteem and withdrawal
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Anxiety or depression
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Difficulty trusting others
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Feelings of worthlessness
(Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2020)
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is the intentional use of physical force that can result in injury, pain, or impairment. Examples include hitting, slapping, burning, or other acts causing bodily harm.
Signs of Physical Abuse:
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Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures
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Frequent injuries or medical visits
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Fearfulness around certain individuals
(U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2021)
Mental Abuse
Mental abuse, sometimes called psychological abuse, involves behaviors that damage a person’s mental health or sense of self. This includes manipulation, intimidation, constant criticism, or controlling behavior.
Signs of Mental Abuse:
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Feelings of helplessness or confusion
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Extreme anxiety or depression
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Difficulty concentrating or decision-making
(StopBullying.gov, 2023; Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2020)
Learn More:
References
Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2020). Understanding emotional abuse. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/can/defining/emotional-abuse/
Olweus, D. (1993). Bullying at school: What we know and what we can do. Wiley-Blackwell.
StopBullying.gov. (2023). What is bullying. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.stopbullying.gov/resources/get-informed/about-bullying
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2021). Child abuse and neglect. https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/can/defining/physical-abuse/
U.S. Department of Education. (2021). Sexual harassment guidance. https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ocrshpam.html
The highly trained professionals at Apex Behavioral Health Western Wayne, P.L.L.C. can help you identify and treat children with bullying behavior and children experiencing being bullied.
For more information call
(734) 729-3133