Victims tend to be loners who tend to cry easily, lack self-defense skills, aren't able to use humor in conflict situations or who don't think quickly on their feet. Children who have few friends are always easy prey for bullies. It's easier to pick on a lone child without witnesses. Children who have special needs are also common victims for bullies. A power differential exists between the bully and the victim.
Bullies tend to confident, aggressive, and lack empathy for the victim.
Bullies come from homes where there is poor supervision, and modeling of and tolerance for aggressive behavior. Victims tend to be quiet, passive children with few friends. Victims do not respond effectively to aggressive actions. Bullying is often done so that adults are not aware of it. Victims are ashamed, and often don't tell an adult.