Which behavior is typically NOT a sign of bullying?

Mutual friendships are typically not a sign of bullying because, in a bullying scenario, the relationship dynamics usually involve one person exerting power or control over another. Bullying is characterized by a lack of mutual respect and positive interaction; instead, it often features repeated harmful actions directed at a chosen target. When true friendships exist, there is generally mutual support, companionship, and shared interests, which stand in contrast to the isolating and harmful behavior seen in bullying contexts.

In bullying situations, there are usually identifiable patterns such as consistent target selection, repeated harassment, and a notable power imbalance between the bully and their target. These behaviors highlight the one-sided nature of bullying, where the aggressor intentionally selects and persistently harasses the victim, exploiting a power differential. In contrast, mutual friendships promote equality and positive interactions, which inherently exclude the possibility of bullying behavior.