Bullying is behaviour by an individual or group with the intention of controlling, harming or damaging people physically or psychologically. It is important to be aware of the signs so that we can support those who are in this situation and stop this type of behaviour from taking hold!

Some of the warning signs are:

• Physical complaints: headaches, stomach aches, sleeping problems, unexplained injuries.
• Emotional changes: sadness, anxiety, low self-esteem, social isolation.
• Problems at school: poor performance, frequent absences, refusal to go to school.
• Behavioural changes: irritability, aggression, anxiety, loss of interest in activities.

These signs may also indicate other problems, so it is always important to talk to the child or young person before interpreting this type of condition, to better understand their experience and to seek professional help if necessary.

Find out more at…

Kallman, J., Han, J., & Vanderbilt, D. L. (2021). What is bullying?. Clinics in Integrated Care, 5, 100046. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intcar.2021.100046

Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses (OPP, 2022). Vamos falar sobre o bullying?. Disponível here

Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses (OPP, 2022). Estou a ser vítima de bullying ou bully?. Disponível here