Which type of bullying behavior is often mistaken for fighting?

Physical bullying is often mistaken for fighting because it involves direct physical aggression, such as hitting, pushing, or any form of violence directed at another person. This type of bullying can appear similar to a fight, especially when it involves two individuals engaging in physical actions that may suggest mutual participation. However, in cases of physical bullying, one individual is typically being targeted repeatedly and is not participating equally in the aggressive behavior, which distinguishes it from a consensual fight.

Understanding this distinction is crucial as it helps in identifying when a situation is bullying rather than a mutual conflict, which is essential for appropriate intervention and support for the victim. Verbal bullying and social bullying, while harmful, do not manifest through physical confrontation, and cyber-bullying occurs in digital environments rather than in a physical space, making them less likely to be mistaken for fighting.