Banter vs bullying
Introduction
But it’s only banter…?"
It’s important to understand when banter turns into bullying and why certain people may react differently to your comments. Words can have different meanings to different people.
Main body
When does banter become bullying or harassment?
Banter is defined as a playful and friendly exchange of remarks, which can be fine, so long as it does not include someone being singled out and laughed at (at their expense). Banter can very quickly become bullying when it:
- is intended to insult and humiliate the other person
- becomes regular and persistent
- after they have asked someone to stop and it continues.
What is bullying?
Bullying is behaviour that undermines the integrity and confidence of a person or a group of people, causing them to feel vulnerable, humiliated, degraded, offended or frightened. Bullying can take many forms including:
- excluding someone out on purpose
- spreading rumours or humiliating someone
- online and in-person
- derogatory remarks
- violating and degrading the person
- inappropriate sexual comments and sexual misconduct
- physically hurting another person, such as kicking, pushing, spitting, and punching.
FAQs
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I witnessed a student being bullied/harassed, what should I do?
If the situation is unsafe, report the issue to security on 02082312001. You should also report the situation in an appropriate manner through the Student Hub
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I am not sure if I am being bullied/harassed?
Sometimes it can be hard to know how you feel about comments made to you, and you may find it difficult to define as bullying or discrimination. No matter what, the University is here to listen and support where needed.
For support, talk to one of our welfare advisors:
- through the Student Hub
- by calling 02082312313
- by emailing studentwelfare@uwl.ac.uk.
You can also visit the support services team on campus from Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
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I have been accused of bullying/harassing, what should l do?
The University takes harassment and bullying seriously, and it is important you are able to talk to someone. Talk to an advisor by making an appointment via the Student Hub.
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What is the disciplinary procedure?
The disciplinary procedures will be followed when there is a breach of the Code of Conduct. Find out more on our Policies and regulations page.
