What is bullying? Types, signs and how to cope
What is bullying? Bullying is a pattern of behaviour where someone repeatedly targets another person to make them feel powerless or hurt. Bullying isn't just a one-off argument or a ‘disagreement’ between equals; it’s a repeated misuse of power that can happen face-to-face or through cyberbullying.
Knowing what bullying is and being able to spot the signs is essential for protecting yourself and others. Sometimes bullying can be obvious, like physical threats, and other times it can be more subtle, like being left out of group chats or having rumours spread about you.
If you’re experiencing this, our practical guide to dealing with bullying can help you regain control. From how to get help for bullying to taking our quiz on how to deal with bullying, there are many ways to navigate this safely.
Remember, you have the right to feel safe at school, at home, and online. If things feel like they’re getting too much, don’t wait to reach out. You can find immediate support on our urgent help page or talk to a professional who can help you work through a plan to stay safe.
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Frequently asked questions about bullying
Bullying is repeated, intentional behaviour designed to hurt or intimidate someone. It usually involves an imbalance of power, making it difficult for the person being bullied to stop it from happening. Read more about what bullying is.
Signs of bullying can include physical injuries, damaged belongings, changes in eating or sleeping habits, avoiding social situations (like school), or feeling suddenly anxious, stressed or withdrawn. If you experience bullying, it’s important to seek support and find ways to help you cope.
There are several forms of bullying: physical (such as hitting or pushing), verbal (like name-calling or teasing), social (including spreading rumours or deliberately leaving someone out), and cyberbullying (which involves harassment through digital platforms and devices). Learn more about the different types of bullying.
Bullying can take a serious toll on mental health, contributing to heightened stress, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. Bullying can also affect your ability to focus at school or work and lower your self-esteem and confidence. Explore ways to cope with bullying and find out how to get help if you're being bullied.
Every Australian school has an anti-bullying policy. You can report it to a teacher, year coordinator, or school counsellor. If you don't feel comfortable talking to school staff, a parent or guardian can help you start the process. Read more about getting help when you’re being bullied.