Some Kids At Greater Risk Of Bullying

Bullying can happen anywhere, but depending on the environment, some groups may be at an increased risk. Learn what factors increase the risk of children being bullied or children more likely to bully others and what warning signs can indicate that bullying may be happening. You can also find out how bullying can negatively impact kids.

• Risk Factors: No single factor puts a child at risk of being bullied or bullying others. Bullying can happen anywhere -- cities, suburbs, or rural towns. Depending on the environment, some groups -- such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered (LGBT) youth, youth with disabilities, and socially isolated youth -- may be at an increased risk of being bullied.
• Warning Signs: There are many warning signs that may indicate that someone is affected by bullying -- either being bullied or bullying others. Recognizing the warning signs is an important first step in taking action against bullying. Not all children who are bullied or are bullying others ask for help. It is important to talk with children who show signs of being bullied or bullying others. These warning signs can also point to other issues or problems, such as depression or substance abuse. Talking to the child can help identify the root of the problem.
• Effects: Bullying can affect everyone -- those who are bullied, those who bully, and those who witness bullying. Bullying is linked to many negative outcomes including impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicide. It is important to talk to kids to determine whether bullying -- or something else -- is a concern.
• Considerations For Specific Groups: Schools and communities that respect diversity can help protect children against bullying behavior. However, when children perceived as different are not in supportive environments, they may be at a higher risk of being bullied. When working with kids from different groups -- including lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) youth and youth with disabilities or special health care needs -- there are specific things you can do to prevent and address bullying.

(© Copyright 2012 U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.)