Bullying And Learning Differences

Bullying is a widespread problem. Many kids bully because they want to feel powerful. So they pick on kids they see as weaker or less likely to defend themselves.

Kids who learn and think differently are more likely to be bullied than their peers. One reason is their differences can make them stand out from the crowd. They may have challenges in school, like trouble reading or sitting still. Or they may get special services, like tutoring.

Another reason is that struggles in school can affect kids’ confidence and self-esteem. Kids who bully may target kids who seem less likely to speak up for themselves.

But not all kids who are bullied are timid. Some may be hyperactive or misbehave (whether they mean to or not). They may get targeted because they are aggressive or easily upset. It’s also common for kids who are bullied to react by bullying others.

Read on to learn more about bullying and how to stop it.

Dive deeper

All kids argue sometimes. They get upset, say mean things to each other, and even fight. But bullying is more than conflict. 

Bullying is when someone uses their power to control or harm someone else. It’s intentional. And it happens more than once. The hurtful behavior is repeated. 

Kids who bully often feel more powerful by targeting kids who are physically smaller or less popular. But not all bullying is physical. Words can hurt too. 

Bullying doesn’t have to be in person, either. With texting and social media, bullying can happen anywhere, even at home on a computer.

Learn about cyberbullying.

Bullying can be harmful to kids. It can affect their mental health and their grades. Students who are bullied may participate less and less in class. They’re also more likely to miss, skip, or drop out of school.

Here are some examples of what bullying can look like:

• Threatening harm

• Hitting or kicking

• Pushing, shoving, or tripping

• Stealing or damaging belongings

• Spreading rumors

• Posting mean messages online in social media or texts

• Making fun of someone

• Name-calling or harsh teasing 

Learn about the difference between teasing and bullying.

Kids who are bullied may also bully others. And kids who witness bullying can react in ways that fuel the negative behavior — or help stop it.

Because kids often play more than one role, it’s important not to label them as “bullies” or “victims.” The labels may reinforce the idea that kids can’t change their behavior. Instead, try to separate the child from the action. Say “the child who bullied” or “the child who was bullied.” 

Download a one-page fact sheet on bullying.

Bullying isn’t just wrong — it’s against the law. Learn about anti-bullying laws that require schools to report and investigate bullying.

Explore other ways to help:

• See steps to take if a child is being bullied at school. 

• Learn what to do if a child is bullying others.

• Explore more tips on how to defend kids from bullying.

Which of these is your main concern?

• My daughter is behind in reading, and the teacher suggested an intervention. What does that mean?
• My daughter has a hard time socially and is often left out by other kids at school. Is there something the school can do?
• My son gets decent grades, but he's always getting into trouble because he's impulsive. What can I say to the teacher?
• Ask your own question...

Get answers to all your questions with the Understood Assistant.