bullying

Bullying is a pattern of repeated aggression, intimidation, or social coercion where there is a power imbalance. In therapy, it is seen as mistreatment that can be verbal, emotional, physical, or digital, leaving lasting wounds to safety and self-worth.

It shows up in schools, workplaces, relationships, and families, and can be modeled or reinforced by a toxic parent or scapegoating dynamics at home. Common patterns include ridicule, threats, humiliation, exclusion, gaslighting, and rumor-spreading. Clinically, its impact is linked to chronic stress, shame, anxiety, depression, and relational or complex trauma, with attention to power dynamics, boundary violations, and attachment injuries.