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Peer Victimization and Bullying are Potentially Traumatic Stressors Among Children
John L Cooley1,2, Jenna G Sims1, Tarrah B Mitchell3
1School of Special Education, School Psychology, and Early Childhood Studies, University of Florida.
Summary
Peer victimization and bullying significantly increase trauma symptoms in middle childhood. Experiences occurring several times a week pose the greatest risk, persisting for months.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Trauma Studies
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Peer victimization and bullying are recognized as significant stressors.
- Limited research exists on cyber victimization in middle childhood.
- Most prior studies are cross-sectional, lacking longitudinal data.
Purpose of the Study:
- Examine the impact of peer victimization and bullying in middle childhood.
- Investigate the effects of cyber victimization during this developmental stage.
- Identify risk thresholds for trauma symptoms in a longitudinal design.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study of 250 children (grades 3-5) and their teachers.
- Assessed peer victimization (child/teacher reports) and bullying (child reports) at Time 1.
- Measured trauma symptoms (child reports) at Time 1 and Time 2 (6.5 months later).
Main Results:
- 43% of children reported elevated trauma symptoms linked to peer victimization.
- Traditional and cyber victimization/bullying correlated with increased trauma symptoms.
- Effects persisted over 6.5 months; "Several Times a Week" frequency showed highest risk.
Conclusions:
- A substantial number of children experience clinically significant trauma symptoms from peer victimization.
- Both traditional and cyber victimization/bullying present lasting risks in middle childhood.
- Screening for impacted children and developing trauma-focused interventions are crucial.
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