Characteristics of 32 children who claimed to be bullied were examined and compared to a control group. Teachers and a psychologist rated the Ss on three aspects: physical characteristics (size and weight for age, attractiveness, physical robustness, appropriateness of dress, odd mannerisms or physical handicaps); personal and psychological characteristics (such as extroversion vs. introversion, adjustment or frustration tolerance or aggressiveness vs. compliance); and social and family background features (such as balanced or extreme child-rearing problems). Bullied children appeared to have more negative traits than a control group of more popular and non-bullied children. Physical attractiveness, physical capability, and willingness to retaliate significantly differentiated Ss from non-bullied children. Non-bullied Ss showed greater sensitivity to the feelings of others and helped protect others, tended to be less selfish, and better adjusted in their capacity to control their feelings. Non-bullied Ss were also more likely to be taught to consider others and not merely themselves. (CL)