Interpersonal Communication- A Mindful Approach to Relationships, 2020a

the name-calling would be considered bullying. You may have been bullied or known someone who was
bullied. It is also possible that you bullied someone. Bullies use their authority, size or power to create
fear in others. Bullying is known to have negative consequences, such as dropping out of school. It was
found that the actions of bullies leave their victims feeling helpless, anxious, and depressed. 46 Other
researchers report three types of bullying: physical, verbal, and relational. 47
involves hitting, kicking, pulling hair, strapping a female’s bra strap or giving a
“wedgie.” Witnesses easily observe this type of bully. You may recall being the victim of these behaviors,
engaging in these behaviors, or watching others engage in these behaviors. Physical bullying can be
prevented by observers, such as teachers or even peers. There are several Public Service Campaigns
directed toward bystanders to let the bystander know that they can help prevent or stop bullying.
However, bullies may corner their victims in a more private setting, knowing that the weaker individual
will not be able to defend themselves.
Relational Bullying
The second type of bullying is indirect or . This form of bullying is the manipulation
of social relationships to inflict hurt upon another individual. 48 This type of bullying includes either
withholding friendship or excluding. Relational bullying often increases as children age because physical
bullying decreases. Relational bullying is particularly problematic because it is very painful for victims,
but cannot be readily observed. One might wonder what a teacher or parent/guardian might do when
two friends suddenly begin to exclude a third friend. The rejection is so painful, but it seems nearly
impossible to require adolescents to continue liking and including the rejected child. An interesting
finding in relation to this type of bullying is that females are more likely to engage in this form of
bullying. 49
Verbal Bullying
The third type of
bullying is
and includes
threats, degrading
comments, teasing,
name-calling,
putdown, or sarcastic
comments. 50 This form
of bullying is easily
observed as well and
can be prevented by
authorities and peers.
The effects of this
form of bullying are
similar to the impact of
physical and relational
Figure 14.6 Consequences of Bullying
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Interpersonal Communication