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Does Peer Victimization Predict Loneliness? A Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Studies
Xiaowei Chu1,2, Haoyuan Chen3,4
1Zhejiang Philosophy and Social Science Laboratory for the Mental Health and Crisis Intervention of Children and Adolescents, School of Psychology, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, 321004, China. chuqxw@zjnu.edu.cn.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|June 19, 2026
Summary
Peer victimization has a minimal long-term effect on loneliness in children and adolescents, even after accounting for initial loneliness levels. This suggests interventions may need reevaluation.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Peer victimization is a significant concern during childhood and adolescence.
- The long-term impact of peer victimization on loneliness requires further clarification.
- Potential moderators of this relationship have not been systematically studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize longitudinal studies via meta-analysis to determine the predictive effect of peer victimization on subsequent loneliness.
- To examine demographic and methodological factors as moderators of this effect.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search across six major databases.
- Inclusion of 30 longitudinal studies with 37,952 participants.
- Multilevel random-effects meta-analysis to assess predictive effects and moderation.
Main Results:
- A significant zero-order correlation (r = 0.26) was found between peer victimization and loneliness.
- After controlling for baseline loneliness, the longitudinal predictive effect was trivial (partial r = 0.07).
- The association weakened with longer time intervals, in European samples, and with peer-nominated measures.
Conclusions:
- The long-term effect of peer victimization on loneliness appears negligible.
- Caution is advised when developing targeted intervention strategies for peer victimization and loneliness.
- Future research should consider moderating factors in understanding this relationship.
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