Conflict vs. Potential HIB Comparison Chart
A comparative reference distinguishing between standard student conflict and Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) under New Jersey school policy.
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Student Conflict
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Potential HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, & Bullying)
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Mutual Interaction
Both students actively participate, argue, fight, or swap negative acts.
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Targeted or Harmful Behavior
Targeted, unwanted, or uninvited behavior directed at a victim.
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Personal Differences
Disagreements stem from personal friction, not protected characteristics.
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Characteristic-Driven
Motivated by actual or perceived race, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, weight, or appearance.
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Impact and Circumstances
Causes temporary disruptions that are managed through standard school procedures.
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Substantial Impact
Creates a hostile educational environment or majorly disrupts school operations.
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School Code of Conduct
Conflict is addressed by code of conduct
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State Law (NJ ABR Act)
Issue addressed under NJ Anti-Bullying Act
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School-Based Response
Peer mediation, problem-solving, restorative discussion, or standard code of conduct consequences.
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Formal HIB Process
Code of Conduct followed
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Formal district investigation, Anti-Bullying Specialist (ABS) review, Board of Education reporting, and targeted remedies.
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Goal: Resolve the Disagreement
Help students take responsibility, repair harm, and move forward.
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Goal: Stop Harm and Restore Safety
Address the behavior, support affected students, and implement appropriate remedial measures.
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*Important clarification: A single incident can qualify as HIB; repeated behavior is not always required. A reported incident should be evaluated individually.
*Every report matters. Students, parents, and community members can report concerns to a school staff member or administrator. Reporting a concern does not automatically mean the incident will be investigated or determined to be a founded HIB.
*Support is available regardless of the outcome. Even when an incident does not meet the legal definition of HIB, the school may address the behavior through the Code of Student Conduct, interventions, and other appropriate supports.
