Approximately 2.1 million bullies and 2.7 million of their victims are in U.S. schools. When compared to other children, bullies grow up to have more arrests for drunk driving, spousal abuse and child abuse. Research indicates that children as young as two or three may show bullying types of behavior. This behavior increases during elementary school and peaks during middle school. Both boys and girls can become bullies.
Boys usually use more direct forms of abuse and usually bully when they're alone.
Girls tend to bully when they're in groups. They tend to use more indirect forms of bullying. Girls may spread false rumors, make degrading remarks, and sabotage, harass, and isolate their victims. Get satisfaction from causing injury and suffering Need to feel powerful and in control Are impulsive Defy or oppose adults Lack empathy for others Think highly of themselves. Many people think bullies don't feel good about themselves or have low self-esteem.