Cohousing-L Mailing List: Definition of Bullying

[Sharon Villines (sharon]

“Bully” has become a buzz word that people have weaponized. Every conflict has 
become an example of bullying.  Every person with a strong opinion is a bully.

Definition of Bullying from the American Psychological Association:

Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and 
repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the 
form of physical contact, words, or more subtle actions.

http://www.apa.org/topics/bullying/

Some definitions are limited to physical threats to force people to do what 
they want. Or define it as having power or taking power over another. I find 
this to be a very limited and obvious definition.

A definition including “intentionally" and “repeatedly" causing injury or 
emotional distress is more specific and covers more instances.

Sharon
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Sharon Villines
Takoma Village Cohousing, Washington DC
http://www.takomavillage.org