Mobbing or bullying occurs when a person or people are mistreated, often regularly, by a group or an individual. Almost everyone has seen or experienced it in some form. At school, for example, pupils or even teachers can be bullied or mobbed. This means that people who are weaker, timid or uncertain of themselves are picked on, tormented or injured by one or more of their classmates. This can be done with words, open or hidden insults, abuse, false statements and intrigues. Sometimes people are attacked more directly, and are beaten up or subjected to other acts of violence. Bullies aim to intimidate and scare their victims as a way of showing their own power.
People are also mobbed at work. They are excluded, made victims of backstabbing or have lies told about them. Mobbing victims suffer from this mistreatment, and sometimes it even makes them ill. Things can go so far that pupils change schools and employees leave their work because they can't bear the attacks any longer.
Researchers have found out that 500,000 children are bullied at school every week. Bullying and mobbing often take place if the atmosphere at school or work is unfriendly or aggressive. The danger of mobbing and bullying is decreased by talking openly and frequently about the subject.