Let’s go through each scenario one by one. We’ll decide if it’s
bullying or just a
conflict, and then explain why.
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Scenario 1:
> On the playground, Jack and Hank get into an argument because they both want to get on the same swing.
This is a
Conflict.
Why? Because both kids want the same thing — the swing — and they’re arguing about it. It’s not mean on purpose over time; it’s just a disagreement in the moment. Conflicts happen when people have different wants or needs.
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Scenario 2:
> Whenever Pete passes George in the hallway, he trips him.
This is
Bullying.
Why? Because Pete is doing something hurtful (tripping) *on purpose*, and he does it *every time* he sees George. That means it’s repeated and meant to hurt or scare George. Bullying is when someone keeps being mean to another person who can’t easily stop it.
---
Scenario 3:
> Betty and Gina both have a crush on the same boy.
This is a
Conflict.
Why? They both like the same person — that’s a situation where feelings might clash, but no one is being mean or hurting anyone yet. It’s just a tricky social situation. Unless one starts teasing or excluding the other, it’s not bullying.
---
Scenario 4:
> Jill tries to sit down at a lunch table, but the kids who are already there tell her she can’t sit there because she stinks.
This is
Bullying.
Why? The kids are saying something cruel (“you stink”) to make Jill feel bad and keep her away. It’s meant to hurt her feelings and exclude her. Even if it happens once, saying something so mean to push someone out is bullying — especially since it attacks her personally.
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Scenario 5:
> Some boys stuff Frank in a garbage can.
This is
Bullying.
Why? This is physical harm and humiliation. Stuffing someone in a trash can is dangerous and meant to embarrass or hurt them. It’s not a fair fight or accident — it’s aggressive and meant to dominate or scare Frank. That’s classic bullying behavior.
---
Final Answer:
1. Conflict
2. Bullying
3. Conflict
4. Bullying
5. Bullying
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of anti bullying worksheet.
