Consequences of Bullying: What Are the Consequences of Bullying?

Research has linked bullying with adverse mental, physical, social, and academic effects. Its severe effects are often overlooked and not taken seriously. The empathy gap is the term used for it. Mental health experts are implying policies to stop bullying by taking steps to reduce this gap.

Let us have a look at them to handle these effects later in the therapy.

Mental Effects

The mental consequences of bullying can be under the surface and not easily seen. These include

• They may have frequent low moods and be sad.
• Anxiety is common among them.
• They develop a fear of random things among them e.g. fear to walk alone to the school.
• They have low self-esteem due to feelings of worthlessness and less confidence.
• Teenagers may indulge in drug abuse due to distress or to find an escape.
• Self-harm activity is common among them.
• Aggression and violent behavior are common among them.

Bullying can cause poor mental health in people of any age, but it is more likely to happen to kids who already struggle with mental health issues. For instance, a child who is lonely and has less confidence can be a victim of bullying. Studies show that online bullying has a link to poor mental health. Children who have experienced abuse on social networking sites report higher levels of sadness and suicidal thoughts, as well as more emotional pain, aggression, and misconduct, as compared to those who have not.

Note: Depression and suicidal thoughts are among the worst consequences of bullying. If you notice any such signs in you or someone you know, report to a mental health expert as soon as possible. Life is precious, save it!

Physical Effects

Bullying and abuse have physical consequences which are easily detected. Such as bruises or wounds due to a physical attack. However, stress can cause medical problems such as

• They may have digestive problems and pain in the stomach due to it.
• Have loss of appetite.
• They may have growth problems due to poor eating habits.
• They frequently report headaches or other body pains.
• Difficulty sleeping due to flashbacks, disturbance, or fear.
• Bedwetting is a sign of abuse and distress.
• Stressful events can increase stress hormones and increase heart rate due to fear and distress.
• They have a weak immune system and are easily prone to illnesses.

Moreover, it affects the overall body functions of people as a result.

Social Effects

Bullying has severe consequences on the social life of a person as

• They lose their confidence.
• They face difficulty engaging in social events. Research shows that they have poor social adjustment as a result.
• Other people avoid or reject them too as a result of conforming.
• They often isolate themselves.
• Family problems are also common due to anger.
• They may have difficulty in maintaining relationships due to trust issues.
• They have difficulty in making future relations as well. Research shows that they may become abusive or emotionally unavailable partners in the future.

Academic Effects

It has been linked to poor academic performance in kids and teens, according to several studies. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress which can hinder their daily life and school activities. Its academic effects of it include

• They may face difficulty concentrating.
• Bullying also has adverse consequences on memory. So it can be difficult to remember lessons.
• If bullying is happening at school then you link negative feelings with that place instead of a place of learning. So they may feel constant fear in school.
• They may also miss their classes.