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Be a Friend, Step in Part III

Published December 1, 2016

What is the difference between bullying and conflict? It’s an important distinction that parents, students and staff must often make.

In this month’s article from the Bullying Prevention Advisory Council, we’ll explore the difference between the two as we continue to focus on spreading the BE NICE message and putting an end to bullying.

But first, we are proud to present the last of three Public Service Announcements that were taped over the summer with the help of several BE NICE student ambassadors. The PSA’s are all based on true stories from WCS students who have experienced bullying.

In order to help stop bullying, the first step is to have a good understanding of what exactly qualifies as bullying behavior.

What is bullying?

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves an observed or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated over time. Bullying may inflict harm or distress on the targeted youth including physical, psychological, social or emotional harm. Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and isolating someone intentionally in a purposeful manner.

What is the difference between bullying and conflict?

People can be harsh and unkind at times. Mean and callous incidents can be very hurtful and uncomfortable for students. However, it’s important to distinguish the difference between bullying and conflict. This is simply a guide, not a checklist.

Conflict

  • Equal power or friends
  • Happens occasionally
  • Accidental
  • Equal emotional reaction
  • Not seeking power or attention
  • Remorse
  • Effort to solve problem

Bullying

  • Imbalance of power-not friends
  • Happens repeatedly
  • Purposeful
  • Strong emotional reaction on part of the victim, little or no emotional reaction from bully
  • Seeking power, control or material things
  • No remorse-blames victim
  • No effort to solve problem

Below are some helpful links:

  • www.stopbullying.gov
  • http://www.education.com/reference/article/bullying-advice-parents-caregivers/