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Mobbing facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Mobbing is a special kind of bullying that happens when a group of people, or even just one person, picks on someone. It's not just one person being mean; it's a group action where there's a big difference in power. This power can be social, physical, or other types.

Mobbing can spread quickly, like a rumor. It often uses gossip, whispers, and hints to make others turn against someone. Usually, there's a leader who encourages the group to act like a "mob" and repeatedly target a specific person.

What is Mobbing?

Mobbing is a serious type of group bullying. It involves a group of people ganging up on one person. This often happens over a long time. The goal is usually to make the person feel alone and pushed out.

How Mobbing Spreads

Mobbing often starts with one person or a small group. They might spread rumors or untrue stories about someone. Other people might then join in, even if they don't know the full story. This can make the targeted person feel very isolated.

History of the Word "Mobbing"

The word "mobbing" comes from the English word "mob". A mob is a large, unruly crowd of people. Some languages in Europe borrowed this word to describe a special kind of bullying. It helps explain when a group acts together against one person.

Signs of Mobbing Behavior

It can be hard to tell if someone is being mobbed. Here are some signs that might show mobbing is happening:

  • A group focuses on one event to show what kind of person the target is.
  • Many people in the group believe the target needs to "learn a lesson."
  • People say mean or untrue things about the target. This is called Defamation.
  • The group shares many negative ideas about the target.
  • It becomes risky for anyone to defend the target. People might be afraid to speak up.
  • The group brings up the target's real or imagined mistakes over and over.
Bullies
Newspaper headlines about bullying

See also

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