A recent WebMD feature explored when innocent teasing turns into calculated bullying.
David Dupper, UT professor of social work, weighs in saying, “For adolescent boys, teasing is a ‘rite of passage’ and an important part of friendship. Teasing can get rough, but it’s not meant to hurt the other person. On the other hand, a bully fully intends to harm his or her victim and has the power and the means to do so.”
This person might be more popular or physically stronger, and the victim may have a hard time defending himself, Dupper says.
Kids who are seen as different or don’t “fit in” are typical targets, he says.