What is actually happening is that the boy is being mocked for his lack of machismo, or his lack of engagement in heterosexist banter with girls or boys. An example of this is the teasing by tough boys of a 'geeky' boy for his academic ability. Conversely, while much sexual bullying is overt, a great deal is not, and appears to be ordinary bullying. Offensive terms are often deployed in a friendly way, so the context of such exchanges is very important, and adults sometimes misinterpret them. This term is primarily used in the United Kingdom and is not yet used in other areas.ĭefinitions and descriptions of bullying and of sexual bullying can be problematic, however. In its most extreme form, it can be inappropriate touching, sexual assault, or even rape. It can be the use of sexual words to put someone down, like calling someone a slut, a slag, or gay, or spreading rumours about someone's alleged sex life.
It can be carried out to a person's face, behind their back or through the use of technology.' The erstwhile Beatbullying organisation (now defunct) had a similar definition. It is when sexuality or gender is used as a weapon by boys or girls towards other boys or girls – although it is more commonly directed at girls. The NSPCC has defined sexual bullying as 'any bullying behaviour, whether physical or non-physical, that is based on a person's sexuality or gender.
