A Comparative Analysis: Childhood vs Adolescent Bullying and Its Effects in Social Anxiety, Depression and Academic Performance
Diana Melendez Perez
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: Psychology
Faculty Research Mentor: Richard Conti
Abstract:
Background: Studies have found that the American school system’s anti-bullying policies are ineffective in preventing bullying and protecting victims. As a result, bullying victims in childhood and adolescence often experience mental health disorders later in adulthood. Aims: This study aims to assess and compare the effects of childhood and adolescent bullying on social anxiety, depression, and academic performance. The goal is to raise awareness about the most impacted groups and encourage policymakers and educational systems to address their needs. Limitations: The study’s limitations include the self-report survey design, possible memory biases, and trauma-blocking mechanisms when recalling past bullying experiences, especially in severe cases. Methods: The sample consisted of 46 college students (ages 18-24) from a large Northeastern University. Participants completed self-report surveys using Qualtrics Software, including the Children and Adolescent Bullying Scale, Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, a depression symptom questionnaire, and a GPA question. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Due to the small sample size, the study was modified to compare bullied and non-bullied groups. Results: The study found a significant relationship between bullying victimization and social anxiety, social anxiety avoidance, and depressive symptoms. However, no relationship was found between bullying victimization and academic performance. Conclusion: The findings suggest that bullying victimization is linked to higher levels of social anxiety and depression, potentially due to self-esteem, shame, and rumination. Future research should use larger, more balanced sample sizes to better assess the effects of childhood and adolescent bullying.