Bullying Defined
Typically, bullying behavior refers to one person telling another person to do something that he/she doesn't want to do, with the threat of injury or other negative consequences for not complying. An older guy telling a younger guy that he will hit him if he doesn't give him some money is an example of this kind of bullying. Lesson 1 of this module addresses coping with this type of bullying
There's another kind of bullying that doesn't threaten physical assault, but rather emotional assault. It's unfair emotional persuasion (manipulation) and can come from a friend. It's called "peer pressure." "T be your best friend" and "What are you, a chicken?" are examples of this kind of bullying. Lesson 3 of this module illustrates coping with the bully who tries to apply peer pressure.
Why People Bully
People bully other people for several reasons. Bullies may threaten other people to get things for themselves. For example, a bully gets a free lunch if he takes it from a weaker person. Bullies might make themselves feel better by demonstrating their power over other people. For example, if a bigger guy threatens a smaller guy to polish his shoes, the bully probably cares more about showing the younger guy who's boss than he cares about getting his shoes cleaned. Some people bully other people because they, themselves, were bullied and learned this behavior if someone is bullied by an older sibling, he/she may bully others
Dangerous Bullying
Dangerous bullying refers to bullying which is likely to result in serious physical injury or death. Indicators of dangerous bullying include the presence of a weapon or potential weapon (knife, bat, chain), extreme anger in the bully, a history of injuring others, and statements of intent or threats to cause injury. These, combined with alcohol or drugs, can make a bullying situation even more dangerous.