Experts say bullying can take the form of verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual harassment.
Examples include persistent name-calling, spreading false rumors, or threats. Many admit that the line between good-natured teasing and unacceptable bullying can be fuzzy, but the difference is the severity and duration of the behavior, and the intent behind it. Bond believes there is far less hazing and harassment at schools today than 10 or 20 years ago, but he thinks there is still a great deal of room for improvement. The rash of school shootings in recent has made it even more vital to deal with the problem, he says. But we've got to become better listeners.