Are educational trajectories influenced by childhood and adolescent experiences of bullying?

Abstract

Bullying is a prevalent problem among school aged children. Short-term effects of bullying are depression, social anxiety, loneliness, and internalizing problems (Juvonen et al., 2003). This study examines the long-term effects of bullying in relation to obtaining a higher education degree. A self-report survey was created and distributed to Middle Tennessee residents via internet. No statistically significant results existed between bullying and degree status. However, themes identified from respondent comments indicated intense effects of bullying. Bullying within this sample was correlated with academic performance, and future implications for research are discussed.