Definition of Bullying
Bullying is when a student, or a group of students, targets another student in a way that takes advantage of a power imbalance. Bullying can be a single serious act or a pattern of actions. It may include written or spoken words, messages sent online, or physical behavior.
Bullying is considered to occur if it:
- Physically hurts a student, damages their belongings, or makes them fear for their safety or property,
- Is severe, happens often, or is widespread enough to create a hostile, threatening, or abusive environment at school,
- Disrupts the learning environment or the normal operation of a classroom or the school,
- Violates the rights of the student being targeted.
Bullying is not allowed at school, and this includes cyberbullying.
Definition of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that uses electronic devices to threaten, harass, or harm someone. This includes:
- Cell phones and smartphones
- Computers and tablets
- Cameras
- Email
- Instant messaging
- Text messaging
- Social media apps
- Internet websites
- Any other internet-based way to communicate
Examples of Bullying
Bullying can include things like:
- Hazing (forcing someone to do something to join a group)
- Making threats
- Teasing or taunting
- Locking someone in a room or not letting them leave (confinement)
- Hitting or assaulting someone
- Demanding money from someone
- Destroying or stealing things that belong to others
- Name-calling
- Spreading rumors
- Purposely leaving someone out (ostracism)