Childhood bullying affects our children for life

We already know that domestic violence has a long-term impact on our children. According to researchers at King's College London, the negative effects of bullying can be seen after the age of 40 in a person who has been the victim of such behavior. Although the results of the study were published in 2014, they remain valid today. Researchers are questioning the long-term health problems of these adults, the increasing number of those affected by various behavioral and mental health problems, and the socio-economic implications of these conditions.

What the study shows us concretely

The sample includes 7771 children who were bullied when they were 7-11 years old, namely: 28% of them were bullied occasionally and 15% frequently. These children were followed by the research team until they were 50 years old.

Dr Ryu Takizawa, who led the research team on behalf of the Institute of Psychiatry (King's College London), said the negative effects of bullying became apparent four decades later, persisting and pervasive in the adult lives of victims, affecting them. medically, socially and economically.

Thus, these people are more likely to have poor physical and mental and cognitive health (less good) when they reach the age of 50. Those in the sample showed a higher risk of depression, anxiety disorders and suicidal tendencies.

They are more likely to remain at a low level of formal education, while the men in the sample had a higher unemployment rate and a lower level of income.

From a social point of view, these victims have problems with relationships and quality of life. They find it harder to develop and maintain relationships, find it harder to get social support, and most people are not happy with their lives.

Childhood victims of bullying are more likely to become obese

The same study shows that repeated aggressions in childhood increased the incidence of obesity and inflammation among victims, one of the risk factors for severe chronic conditions (such as heart attack or type 2 diabetes).

26% of female victims were already obese at the age of 45, compared to only 19% of those who had never been bullied. The BMI was higher for all victims, regardless of gender, compared to those who were not subjected to such assaults.

Frequent exposure to bullying has been shown to cause higher levels of inflammation in middle-aged adult victims. Careful! High levels of C-reactive protein are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and atherosclerosis. High levels of fibrinogen in the same people in the sample are associated with the risk of thrombi (blood clots).

That is why bullying is a major negative phenomenon that must be taken very seriously

This explains why the international community, psychologists and psychiatrists have placed more emphasis on the need for concrete policies and measures to combat bullying, especially in educational institutions.

We, the parents, also have an important role to play in this endeavor. Other studies show that we need to be closer to our children than ever before, because they are under greater pressure. Moreover, children and young people who are abusive, copy behaviors or are influenced by aggressive behaviors to which they are exposed in turn.

What can we do

In order not to become victims or suffer long-term negative effects, our children need to be taught how to react in such situations. Let's explain to them that behind the aggressions is the need for power, control, absence or non-involvement of parents, traumatic situations in their own families or entourage. Let's teach them how to react to disarm or discourage aggressors.

Our children need to know that they are valued, loved, cared for, and protected. Let's support and cultivate self-esteem and confidence. Let's listen to them even when they don't tell us much. Let them talk about the difficulties they are going through and intervene quickly, without delay, using legal and procedural leverage to protect them. Let's consult specialists (psychotherapists) to intervene as soon as possible so as not to regret it later.