In the wake of the viral sensation surrounding Geng Tai's antics, the discourse on bullying resurfaces with fervor. A study reveals the profound and enduring impact of bullying on the minds and bodies of its victims, persisting for years beyond the actual harassment, extending into adulthood.
Researchers have unearthed the significant influence of bullying on the well-being of children who find themselves repeatedly targeted, manifesting in worsened mental and physical health, heightened depressive symptoms, and plummeting self-esteem.
As cited from Live Science, this study also sheds light on the stark reality that contemporary victims of bullying fare worse than their counterparts of yesteryears.
"The effects of oppression may magnify with the passage of time," remarks Laura Bogart, a social psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital and one of the study's lead researchers.
The findings, published on February 17th and slated for the March edition of the Pediatrics journal, assert that children subjected to relentless bullying bear the brunt of its repercussions.
"This underscores a compelling argument for promptly engaging in early intervention against bullying," emphasizes Bogart.
Early Intervention
In this study, researchers surveyed nearly 4,300 students attending public schools in Los Angeles, Houston, and Birmingham, Ala. Data were collected from students when they were in fifth, seventh, and tenth grades, as well as from their parents.
To ascertain whether students had been frequently or repeatedly bullied in elementary, middle, and high school, they were asked about the frequency with which other children kicked or shoved them cruelly over the past year. The children also completed questionnaires detailing their physical and mental well-being.
By the tenth grade, approximately 30% of the students in this study had experienced bullying. Across all three grade levels, students who had never been bullied reported the highest psychological health.
However, even children who had been bullied in the past carried enduring psychological scars, though not as severe as those currently experiencing or repeatedly enduring bullying. learn more computer aided software testing .
For these children, their mental health scores declined over time, indicating discomfort with themselves and a prevalence of negative emotions.
While the study did not examine the full physical impact of bullying, the questionnaire inquired about basic physical activities, such as whether bullying made it difficult for them to walk around the house, do homework, or participate in sports.
The study did not delve into physical complaints and injuries, such as stomachaches, pains, bruises, and broken bones. Bogart also noted that the study solely measured direct bullying and did not encompass cyberbullying or harassment in the virtual realm.
"Nevertheless, cyberbullying stands as a promising future direction for this research," Bogart asserts.
Warning Signs
The findings suggest that the emotional wounds inflicted by bullying may persist long after the taunts and torment cease. So, what can parents do to aid their children?
"The first step for parents is to fortify communication with their children, making bullying a part of the conversation, especially at a younger age," advises Bogart.
"This can emerge as part of a broader discussion about respecting others and embracing differences among them," she suggests.
Bogart also recommends that parents pay attention to and recognize signs of bullying, which may not always be evident physical cues like black eyes but could manifest as unexplained scratches or bruises.
Parents should also take note of subtle changes in their child's behavior, such as reluctance to attend school or appearing more anxious, sad, or depressed.
Furthermore, Bogart advises parents to be more vigilant regarding these warning signs if their children fall into high-risk groups more prone to bullying. This includes children struggling with obesity or disabilities, as well as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender teenagers.
While not all children fall victim to bullying, many are impacted by it and witness it in schools, being aware that it's happening, Bogart remarks.
She encourages parents to instill in their children the notion that it's okay to speak up if they witness someone being bullied.
