Characteristics of bullies and ramifications of bullying

Also, bullies generally have low self-esteem. While some bullies are arrogant and narcissistic, they can also use bullying as a tool to conceal shame or anxiety or to boost self-esteem.  By demeaning others, the abuser feels empowered. Bullies may bully out of jealousy or because they themselves are bullied. Psychologist  Roy Baumeister asserts that people who are prone to abusive behaviour tend to have inflated but fragile egos. Because they think too highly of themselves, they are frequently offended by the criticisms and lack of deference of other people, and react to this disrespect with violence and insults.

Researchers have identified other risk factors such as depression and    personality disorders, as well as quickness to anger and use of force, addiction to aggressive behaviours, mistaking others’ actions as hostile, concern with preserving  self-image, and engaging in obsessive or rigid actions. A combination of these factors may also be causes of this behaviour.