Title: The Effects of Bullying - Rethink Education
Headings: The Effects of Bullying
The Effects of Bullying
By: Christina Whalen, PhD, BCBA-D, Director of Research

Content: Students who are frequently bullied are two times more likely to have suicidal ideation or attempts (Gini & Espelage, 2014). Students who are bullies also have long-term issues such as academic problems, substance use, behavioral issues, and problems with the law. They are less likely to obtain meaningful employment and often struggle with independence and relationships as adults. There are many reasons why a student might be the victim of bullying. The research on race, ethnicity, and national origin are still not clear, but there are some studies that report this to be a reason for bullying. For instance, Davis & Nixon, 2010, reported that about 16% of students reported this as a reason for bullying. Common reasons for bullying include looks and body shape. In 2010, Davis & Nixon reported that about 55% students reported looks as the primary reason for bullying and about 37% reported body shape as the primary reason. About 1/3 of overweight girls and ¼ of overweight boys reported being teased or bullied about their weight (Puhl, Luedick, & Heuer, 2011). The students who are at highest risk for being targets are LGBTQ students and students with disabilities.