Effects of Childhood Bullying on Adult Depression

A recently published study in the BMJ examines the relationship between adolescent bullying and adult depression. In this longitudinal study, researchers followed the experiences of 6,719 participants over the course of several years and found an association between peer victimization in adolescence and an increased risk of depression in adulthood. Dr. Keith Sutton, a Bay Area clinical psychologist, stresses the importance of this issue in an interview with KGO Radio. Dr. Sutton explains that the negative feelings caused by adolescent bullying and peer victimization can carry over into adulthood. Dr. Sutton encourages parents to listen to their children, for this form of support "decreases depression, anxiety, and suicidal attempts and ideation." However, it is important to note that children who experience this sort of harassment often suffer from low self-esteem issues and may even blame themselves for the way they are being treated. Therefore, they may not be very open with others about what is going on. This is why it is so crucial for action to be taken against bullying and peer victimization. If a parent discovers that a classmate is bullying his or her child, the next step should be to contact the school or reach out to anyone else who can help put an end to this harmful behavior.

KGO Interview 1
KGO Interview 2

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