In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Department of Education released the first federal definition of Bullying. The definition includes three core elements: 

• Unwanted aggressive behavior
• Observed or perceived power imbalance
• Repetition or high likelihood of repetition of bullying behaviors 

Bullying affects all youth, including those who are bullied, those who bully others, and those who witness bullying. The effects of bullying may continue into adulthood. Youth who bully can be either well connected socially or marginalized, and may be bullied by others as well. Similarly, those who are bullied sometimes bully others. 

Solutions to bullying are not simple. Bullying prevention approaches that show the most promise confront the problem from many angles. They involve the entire school community—students, families, administrators, teachers, and staff such as bus drivers, nurses, cafeteria and front office staff—in creating a culture of respect. Zero tolerance and expulsion are not effective approaches. Bystanders, or those who see bullying, can make a huge difference when they intervene on behalf of someone being bullied. 

Studies also have shown that adults can help prevent bullying by talking to children about bullying, encouraging them to do what they love, modeling kindness and respect, and seeking help. 

Facts from www.stopbullying.gov