Bullying is an example of which type of behavior?

• A. Externalizing behavior
• B. Internalizing behavior
• C. Adaptive behavior
• D. Prosocial behavior

Answer: (A)

Externalizing behavior is when a child expresses distress or conflict through outward actions that affect others. Bullying fits this because it involves intentional, repeated aggressive or coercive acts toward peers to establish power and cause harm. These actions are visible and disruptive, which is why they’re categorized as externalizing. Internalizing behaviors would be things like anxiety or withdrawal felt inward, not directed at others. Adaptive behavior means functioning effectively in daily life, and prosocial behavior involves helping others. Bullying is outward aggression toward others, not internal distress, not a sign of good adaptation, and not primarily prosocial. Recognizing it as externalizing helps guide interventions like clear rules, supervision, and social-skills support.