7 Types of Bullying and Warning Signs

Bullying comes in many forms, each affecting victims differently. Understanding these types and recognizing the warning signs can help protect individuals from harm and support those who are already impacted.

Below are the seven main types of bullying and signs to look out for in each.

1. Physical Bullying

Physical bullying is the most visible form of bullying, involving direct physical harm or intimidation to the victim. This can include hitting, kicking, pushing, or damaging a person’s belongings. While physical bullying is often more noticeable, it can still be overlooked, especially if the victim is afraid to report it. The physical harm is immediate, but the emotional and psychological effects can be long-lasting, leading to anxiety, fear, and a sense of helplessness.

Signs To Look For:

• Unexplained cuts, bruises, or injuries

• Damaged or missing personal belongings (e.g. torn clothing, broken phones)

• Frequent complaints of headaches or stomach aches to avoid school

• Sudden aggressive behaviors or defensive reactions when touched

• Avoidance of specific people or places

2. Verbal Bullying

Verbal bullying involves the use of words to harm or hurt someone, humiliate or intimidate someone often through insults, threats, mean jokes aimed at belittling or undermining the victim, name calling or verbal harassment. While it may not leave physical scars, verbal bullying can deeply damage a person’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. It often happens in school settings, workplaces, and even online, making it pervasive and difficult to escape.

Signs To Look For:

• Sudden low self-esteem or self-criticism

• Social withdrawal or reluctance to speak in groups

• Frequent complaints of feeling “worthless” or “stupid”

• Noticeable emotional outbursts, such as crying or frustration

• Changes in communication patterns (e.g. less talkative, avoiding conversations)

3. Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that occurs through digital platforms such as social media, texting, gaming or email, and is often persistent. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen 24/7, making it difficult for victims to escape the harassment. It often involves spreading harmful rumors, sending threatening messages, sharing embarrassing content, or excluding individuals from online groups. Due to the anonymity of the internet, cyberbullies can attack victims without facing immediate consequences, which can intensify the emotional impact.

Signs To Look For:

• Emotional distress after using devices (e.g. sadness or anger)

• Avoiding or deleting social media accounts

• Withdrawing from online activities they once enjoyed

• Becoming secretive about online communications

• Unexplained changes in mood after receiving notifications or messages

4. Social/Relational Bullying

Social bullying, also known as relational bullying, is a subtler but deeply harmful form of bullying that focuses on damaging someone’s reputation or social relationships. Instead of direct physical or verbal attacks, it involves manipulation, exclusion, spreading rumors, and undermining someone’s friendships. This type of bullying is often more difficult to detect because it occurs within the dynamic of peer groups, making it harder for outsiders to notice the signs.

Signs To Look For:

• Sudden exclusion from peer groups or social activities

• Noticeable anxiety about attending social events or school

• Increased isolation or reluctance to talk about friendships

• Drastic changes in friendships, often without explanation

• Drop in confidence or feelings of worthiness in social settings

5. Sexual Bullying

Sexual bullying involves inappropriate or unwelcome comments, gestures, or actions related to sexuality or gender. It can range from inappropriate jokes and teasing to more serious forms of harassment or assault. This type of bullying often targets a person’s appearance, body, or sexuality, making the victim feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or unsafe. Sexual bullying can happen in person or online and affects people of all ages and gender.

Signs To Look For:

• Avoiding specific individuals or groups

• Sudden reluctance to participate in physical education or social activities

• Withdrawal from conversations or experience involving gender or sexuality

• Anxiety, shame, or discomfort when discussing body image or sexual topics

• Noticeable changes in behavior when discussing relationships or dating

6. Prejudicial Bullying

Prejudicial bullying is a harmful form of discrimination where individuals are targeted based on their race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Rooted in stereotypes and biases, this type of bullying aims to marginalize those who are perceived as “different.” Prejudicial bullying can be verbal, physical, or emotional, and its impact is often deeply personal, attacking the victim’s identity.

Signs To Look For:

• Avoiding conversations about identity, culture, or personal background

• Increased anxiety in diverse or group settings

• Distancing from one’s cultural or religious identity

• A change in attitude toward school, particularly if the bullying is race or religion based

• Unexplained mood swings, especially after encountering certain groups of people

7. Disability Bullying

Disability bullying is a targeted form of harassment where individuals with physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities are singled out because of their condition. This type of bullying can be particularly harmful, as it often exploits a person’s vulnerabilities and may go unnoticed or unreported. It can occur in schools, workplaces, and online, and can manifest in both obvious and subtle ways, making it crucial to recognize the signs.

Signs To Look For:

• Physical injuries or unexplained damage to mobility aids, hearing devices, or other assistive equipment

• Frequent isolation from peers or exclusion from group activities

• Sudden drop in confidence, especially in performing tasks they were previously comfortable with

• Avoidance of certain people or places, such as school, work, or social environments

• Emotional distress, such as increased anxiety, depression, or frustration after interactions

• Reluctance to discuss their disability, possibly stemming from shame or previous negative experiences

• Withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities, particularly those involving social interaction

Conclusion

Bullying can be subtle and hard to detect, but by recognizing the warning signs early, we can provide timely support and intervention. If you suspect someone is being bullied, encourage open communication and take action to prevent further harm.