Questions: Understanding Bullying

Question 1

What counts as bullying?

• A. Being mean one time
• B. Repeated, intentional harm with a power imbalance (more powerful person targeting someone they perceive as weaker)
• C. Two friends having a conflict
• D. Someone being annoying

Answer: (B)

Bullying involves a pattern, intention to harm, and a power dynamic — not just one mean comment or a conflict between equals.

Question 2

If you're being bullied, it's your fault because you probably did something to deserve it.

• T. True
• F. False

Answer: False

False. Bullying is never the target's fault. People bully for many reasons (insecurity, wanting power), but nothing justifies it.

Question 3

If you see bullying happening, it's not your responsibility to do anything.

• T. True
• F. False

Answer: False

False. You can't control what bullies do, but you can get an adult involved or be an ally to the person being hurt.

Question 4

If you're being bullied, what should you do?

• A. Keep it secret and try to handle it alone
• B. Tell a trusted adult, document what's happening, and stay connected to supportive friends
• C. Bully them back
• D. Assume it will go away on its own

Answer: (B)

Getting adults involved and staying connected to support is how bullying actually stops, not through secrecy or retaliation.

Question 5

Describe what you would do if you witnessed someone being bullied.

Model answer: Examples: Stand with the person being bullied. Tell a trusted adult. Don't join in. Send the person a message of support. Refuse to laugh at mean jokes.

Good answers show taking some action, whether direct support or getting adult help, rather than staying silent.