Bullying - What is it?

Bullying may be defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, repeated over time, painful or distressing, against which it is difficult for the victim to protect him/herself. Single unintentional incidences should not be considered as bullying.

Bullying can be physical, verbal, or indirect. It can include name-calling, threats and extortion, physical violence, damage to belongings, exclusion from activities, humiliation, intimidation and spreading malicious rumours. There are also forms of bullying that can be delivered using mobile phones and e-mail messages as well as face to face.