{"id":354974,"date":"2016-04-04T11:01:45","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T16:01:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/bullying.html"},"modified":"2023-10-26T08:55:26","modified_gmt":"2023-10-26T13:55:26","slug":"bullying","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/bullying.html","title":{"rendered":"Bullying"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Bullying<\/h1>\n
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\n By Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Susan Mills Richmond, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

"Bullying" refers to verbal, physical, or mental acts committed by a student to harass, intimidate, or cause harm to another student. Bullying in schools can severely impact students’ mental health, well-being, and overall safety. Students, including those with disabilities, face it on school grounds. They might also suffer bullying on school bus rides, at school-sponsored activities, and online.<\/p>\n

Bullying may include verbal threats and physical assault. It can consist of intimidation or other inappropriate behavior. This can include harassment<\/a>, disorderly conduct<\/a>, and acts that disturb the peace<\/a>. Bullying on school campuses is a growing concern. Parents, school districts, and students should be aware of the severe violations and violence<\/a> that may occur as a result of bullying.<\/p>\n

This section discusses the issue of bullying, disciplinary actions, and student protection.<\/p>\n

Anti-Bullying State Laws<\/h2>\n

In each U.S. state, specific laws govern student behavior, student conduct, and student discipline in the school setting. Several states have passed laws to address intimidation, harassment, and bullying in schools. These anti-bullying laws are meant to promote school safety. They also help improve truancy rates and reduce school violence, among other things. The law requires schools to create specific policies for prevention, training, and enforcement.<\/p>\n

Students who violate anti-bullying provisions face in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, and expulsion. Schools and districts may face hefty monetary fines arising from civil liability claims. The goal is to have a positive school climate where students can learn without fear.<\/p>\n

Examples of specific behavior that constitutes bullying include:<\/p>\n