Bullying Glossary of Terms
The Bullying Glossary provides definitions and terms related to bullying, both on and off this website.
- Accountability – Holding someone accountable for their actions
- Anti-bullying – Taking a stand against bullying in all its forms
- Assault – When you make a physical attack on another person
- Bystander – “A person who observes but does not participate; bystanders may serve as enablers of bullies”
- Cyberbullying – The term “cyberbullying” refers to bullying or harassment through electronic means that is becoming increasingly common, particularly among teenagers.
- Depression –Mental illness characterized by extreme sadness, melancholy, and inadequate feelings.
- Hate crime – A crime perpetrated against someone based on their
race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, etc - Intimidation – Using fear to control or manipulate someone. This can include threats, coercion, or aggressive behavior to instill fear in the victim.
- Isolation – Excluding someone from social activities, friendships, or groups intentionally.
- Mean girls – A type of bullying perpetrated by girls. The behavior includes backstabbing, exclusion, and rumors used to isolate and terrorize a victim.
- Social Anxiety Disorder – Is characterized by an intense fear of being watched and judged by others and a worry that one will be humiliated or embarrassed.
Teasing – Making fun of someone in a playful or hurtful manner. When teasing becomes persistent and hurtful, it may escalate into bullying.
What is body shaming?
Making inappropriate or negative comments about someone’s body size or shape is body shaming. Body shaming can negatively affect children’s mental health and wellbeing. Before you criticize someone’s body, think twice.