More effective anti-bullying measures needed in schools

A major new study by experts from The University of Manchester has found that bullying has a significant negative impact on the mental health of teenagers - particularly for boys - and has highlighted the need for more effective prevention strategies in schools.

The research, which utilised #BeeWell data from over 2,6000 young people who were followed from age 12/13 to 14/15, shows that bullying has a profound impact on mental health and is a major factor contributing to internalising symptoms such as anxiety and depression in adolescents.

There are clear differences in how bullying affects boys and girls. For boys, mental health issues like anxiety and depression led to an increased likelihood of being bullied later on. For girls, being bullied led to later reductions in friendship and social support.

The findings emphasise the importance of positive peer relationships - particularly for girls - as a protective factor against mental health problems. The study suggests that social support can help reduce internalising symptoms.

Bullying is a difficult issue to resolve, and the research highlights that this requires a whole-school approach which includes children, parents and teachers. Schools need to implement comprehensive anti-bullying programmes which address the specific needs of both boys and girls, focus on building positive peer relationships and provide support for those experiencing mental health issues.

This study emphasises that it is essential for education, health and government agencies to allocate sufficient resources to make these prevention programmes widespread and effective. By understanding these complex relationships, safer and more supportive environments for adolescents can be created.

According to the researchers, parents should also be aware of the impact of bullying on their children’s mental health and be proactive in supporting their children's friendships.

“Our research provides important new evidence about the devastating impact of bullying on adolescent mental health,” said Manchester Institute of Education’s Dr. Qiqi Cheng, lead author of the study. “There is an urgent need for effective interventions that address the unique challenges faced by boys and girls during a critical developmental period in their lives.”

The study was published by the Journal of Youth and Adolescence, and is available to view here.