Recognising and acting on bullying among pupils

In short: Bullying among pupils is systematic, repeated harassment over a longer period, not a single argument. Fast and consistent action by adults is crucial.

In more detail: Bullying increasingly also happens online (cyberbullying), affecting those targeted around the clock.

In detail

• Forms: Exclusion, teasing, violence or spreading rumours and embarrassing content.
• Warning signs: Withdrawal, declining grades, stomach or headaches without a recognisable cause.
• First steps: Listen calmly, document incidents without judging prematurely.
• Involving the school: Inform teachers and school social workers early (schulsozialarbeit-und-beratungslehrer).
• Those bullying: Children involved in bullying also need support to change their behaviour.
• Bystanders: The role of the silent majority is often decisive in ending bullying.
• Cyberbullying: Save screenshots, report accounts, consider legal steps if necessary.