Bullying is a form of violence. It can be physical, verbal, psychological, or sexual. Here are some examples of bullying:
- Physical: hitting, kicking, spitting, pushing
- Verbal: teasing, threatening, name-calling
- Psychological: excluding someone, spreading rumors, intimidating
- Sexual: touching, assault, exhibitionism, and many of the actions listed above
Bullying may also occur through the Internet or other forms of technology. This is known as cyberbullying. It is sending or posting hurtful material.
Bullying is common, but it should not be viewed as a normal part of growing up. It is more damaging to children than previously thought. Bullying has a negative effect on a student’s ability to learn.
Schools are responsible for creating safe environments for all students. They must work to prevent bullying, and they must respond to it when it happens.
The California Department of Education offers information and resources for parents, administrators, and students about bullying.
Information and Resources
Bullying Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions based on the Bullying at School publication.
Bullying at School (PDF; 1.3MB; 52pp.)
This California Department of Education publication discusses methods for determining whether or not bullying behavior and/or hate-motivated behavior is present.
Prevention of Bullying:
A Community Responsibility
Provides key elements of a bullying prevention program.
Sample Policies
Model policies on the prevention of bullying and on conflict resolution
that were developed by the California Department of Education
as resources to help California schools address these vital school
safety concerns.
Bullying Publications and Resources
Publications and resources for educators, parents, and community members
with tools for recognizing bullying behavior and approaches for
determining how to respond.
