Bullying

Erin Massey, LCSWBy Erin Massey, LCSW

As behavioral health providers, we have the opportunity to work with individuals of all ages—children, adolescents, and adults—each with unique backgrounds and life experiences. One common theme I’ve observed throughout my career is the prevalence of bullying. While bullying often brings to mind school settings, it is just as visible online, especially on social media platforms like Facebook. It can be difficult to ignore the hostile exchanges that occur when people disagree or dismiss one another’s opinions. Regardless of where it takes place, bullying can have harmful and lasting effects.

Bullying is defined as unwanted, repeated aggressive behavior involving a real or perceived power imbalance that causes physical, social, or psychological harm. It can take many forms, including:

  • Social bullying – spreading rumors or excluding others
  • Verbal bullying – teasing, name-calling, or insults
  • Physical bullying – hitting, pushing, or other physical aggression
  • Cyberbullying – sharing private information, photos, or videos of someone with the intent to hurt, embarrass, or intimidate

Each form of bullying negatively impacts mental health. It can interfere with school or work performance and can undermine an individual’s sense of safety in their environment.

Research consistently shows that addressing bullying effectively requires a multi‑layered, community-wide approach. This includes not only school systems but families, workplaces, and the broader community working together to create a culture of respect. Bullying does not end with childhood; adults can experience or participate in bullying behaviors as well. Persistent bullying can increase feelings of isolation, exclusion, rejection, and despair and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Prevention starts at home. Teaching children the importance of the timeless guideline—“treat others the way you want to be treated”—lays the foundation for empathy and compassion. Adults play a pivotal role by talking openly with children about bullying and modeling kindness, respect, and patience. It’s also important to remember that everyone has their own perspectives and experiences. After all, the world would be a much duller place if we were all the same.