What defines bullying as an act?

Bullying is fundamentally characterized by intentional, systematic efforts to harm an individual or a group over time. This definition underscores the nature of bullying not just as an isolated incident, but as a continuous pattern of aggressive behavior that can manifest in various forms such as physical, verbal, or relational attacks. The key components here are the intent behind the action and the consistent nature of the behavior — it is enacted with the purpose of inflicting harm or exerting power over the victim. This systematic aspect differentiates bullying from mere teasing or conflict, which may lack intent or the repetitive element crucial to defining bullying. Therefore, understanding bullying as a deliberate and sustained act allows for better recognition of its impact and the necessity for intervention in such situations.