I think the bigger problem with bullying is the fact that people don't really understand what the definition of the word is. They think that kids being mean is bullying. That's not always the case. Sometimes kids are just mean. We actually got in trouble at one point because our reports of bullying were low. The person questioning it said there is no way it can be that low. We (not me) pointed out that we only had a handful of incidents in the year that actually meet the criteria of being bullying, so yes, our numbers are that low. People think they are experts on everything these days. Oh, in case you didn't know what the criteria are: The behavior must be unsolicited, repeated, and there must be an imbalance of power between the person and the aggressor. If it doesn't meet all three of those, it's just kids being dicks.
"Feels like bullying" is also an issue here, isn't it? I was reading an article the other day of a junior lawyer who was being bullied at work, because his supervisor told him he has to come to meetings on time....
Sounds a lot like most kids - and adults.
Separate note, but one I think is important these days. What is "imbalance of power" in the workplace with adults? Seems crazy that it just comes down to the organizational chart, or how much someone earns.
It's definitely funny how people throw the word around without really knowing the technicalities. Sadly, even if people were/are educated on it, they would still act the same because going on social media and saying your kid is being bullied gets more likes and sympathy. I think when they say imbalance of power they lean towards physical traits, but for sure organizational structure can play a part. I think in that case, that's where the other two criteria come into play.
Just imagine, if parents would spend more effort on building the skills necessary so that their children could deal with issues, rather than trying to get likes for them as victims.
That doesn't give them that warm fuzzy feeling inside though... :)