Bullying is different from conflict.

Conflict is a disagreement or argument in which both sides express their views.

Bullying is negative behaviour directed by someone exerting power and control over another person.

Bullying is when someone aggressively uses their “power” to target another individual with repeated, unwanted words or actions. Those targeted are hurt either physically or emotionally and have a hard time stopping what is happening to them.

In normal conflict, children self-monitor their behaviour. They read cues to know if lines are crossed, and then modify their behaviour in response. Children guided by empathy usually realize they have hurt someone and will want to stop their negative behaviour. On the other hand, children intending to cause harm and whose behaviour goes beyond normal conflict will continue their behaviour even when they know it's hurting someone.