Often, aggressive behavior is a defense mechanism used to mask a teen's own feelings of inadequacy or fear of being targeted themselves.

Subtle insults disguised as praise to undermine confidence. 🛡️ How to Navigate the Drama

Talk to a trusted adult, school counselor, or therapist. They can provide perspective and help mediate if the behavior becomes severe bullying. 📖 Further Reading

Making a peer question their own reality or feelings to gain control.

Intentionally leaving someone out of events, group chats, or lunch tables.

Experts frequently write about the link between parental behavior and teen bullying on platforms like HuffPost .

If you are dealing with toxic social dynamics, consider these strategies: