Back to School Edition: The Psychological Effects of Bullying

According to American Psychological Association, bullying is a form of “youth violence” toward a victim involving unwanted aggressive behavior from a bully (an individual or a group). At the heart of bullying is a power imbalance—whether perceived or actual—of social status, wealth, physical strength, or size. Bullying can be repeated over periods, resulting in physical, psychological, social, or educational harm.

 Bullying behaviors include: physical intimidation or harm tripping, hitting, pushing, or spitting on a victim, social exclusion, making fun of the victim, teasing, name-calling, and/or insults, threats, property destruction, making the victim do something s/he doesn’t want to do, spreading rumors or lies about the victim.

Recent studies from the American Mental Health Counselor Association showed that five students aged 12–18 say they have been bullied. It happens often, at least once a week in 14% of public schools. Instances are highest for middle schools, followed by high schools and elementary schools. 

An even greater number of teenagers experience bullying online. The Pew Research Center found that nearly two in three American teenagers have experienced cyberbullying. Because cyberbullying can be 24/7 and public, victims may feel they can never get away from it.

Children and teens at greater risk for being bullied are often thought of as “different” in appearance, sexual orientation, cultural identity, or disability. They may be new to the school and/or have fewer friends. Bullies themselves may be popular and well known, or on the outside looking in. They may be victims of past bullying or victims while they are bullying others. They’re more likely to bully others if they have trouble following rules, their parents are less involved, and/or they view violence as acceptable.

Bullying can affect mental, physical, and emotional health during school years and into adulthood. It can lead to physical injury, social or emotional problems, and in some cases, even death.

The first step is reaching out to our professionals such as mental health practitioners, therapists, counselors, or even a psychiatrist in other to develop appropriate solutions and treatment plans.

Most often time, parents can be dismayed to find out that their children are involved in bullying—either as the perpetrator or on the receiving end.

If you need a psychiatrist, mental health nurse practitioner, or Therapist Dallas, Houston, or San Antonino TX area we offer both Virtual & in-person appointments. visit contact us at https://www.lytepsych.com/