Bullies & victims

Who are bullies and who gets bullied?

Bullies may exhibit the following behaviors:

• May control or manipulate others to get his own way
• May be aggressive, nasty, spiteful, and combative
• May be impulsive and quick to anger
• Might enjoy pushing, name calling, or teasing other children
• May be defiant and pushy toward adults, including parents and teachers
• May be unfeeling toward others who are victimized
• If a boy, he is often larger or stronger than others his age

Victims of bullies may exhibit the following behaviors:

• May be cautious, quiet, or shy
• May be worried or unhappy, with little self-confidence
• May be depressed or have thoughts of suicide
• May not have a good friend
• May relate better to adults than other kids
• If a boy, may be weaker or smaller than others his age

In addition, there is a small group of young people who both bully others and are the targets of bullying.