Teasing and bullying can sometimes look similar, but they’re different. Friendly teasing is playful, happens between friends, stops when someone asks, and everyone involved feels okay about it. Bullying feels mean, continues even when you ask it to stop, and makes you feel bad.
The big difference? Intent and impact. Friendly teasing comes from a place of affection and stops immediately if it hurts someone. Bullying is meant to hurt, embarrass, or have power over someone. If ‘teasing’ makes you dread going to school or being around certain people, it’s crossed the line into bullying.
What can help:
What to know
- Tell the person clearly that their words hurt you
- Notice if they stop when you ask (friends will, bullies won’t)
- Talk to an adult if the behavior continues
- Remember you have the right to ask people to stop
Real friends respect your boundaries. If someone won’t stop when you ask, that’s not friendship.
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Understanding starts here.
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