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Help & Information

The Effects of Bullying Behaviour

Although there are three main groups that are affected by bullying behaviour – tthose who are bullied, those who display bullying behaviour and the bystanders who see it happen, bullying behaviour encompasses and affects the entire school community, families and friendship groups.

Bullying behaviour creates a culture of fear and has a negative impact on everyone involved. Being bullied can seriously affect a person’s physical, emotional, academic and social well-being. Many sufferers of bullying lack confidence, feel bad about themselves, have few friends and spend a lot of time alone.

Being bullied is hurtful and stressful and is something many people find it hard to speak about. Those who are bullied continually ask, why me? They may feel ashamed and embarrassed that is happening to them.

Bullying behaviour can have devastating effects on a person which can last into adulthood. At its worst, being bullied has driven children and young people to self-harm and even suicide.

Effects of Bullying on the Bullied

Those who are bullied may:

  • Feel disconnected from school and not want to attend
  • Have lower academic outcomes, including lower attendance
  • Lack quality friendships at school
  • Display high levels of emotion that indicate vulnerability and low levels of resilience
  • Avoid conflict and be socially withdrawn
  • Have low self-esteem
  • Become depressed, anxious and lonely
  • Have nightmares
  • Feel wary or suspicious of others
  • In extreme cases, have a higher risk of self-harm and/or suicide

Effects of Bullying on those who display bullying behaviour

People who display bullying behaviour towards others may:

  • Display high levels of aggressive behaviour which can impact on their future
  • Struggle to develop and maintain effective relationships
  • Have difficulty integrating into education settings or the workplace
  • Have low self-esteem
  • Have difficulty understanding boundaries and limits

Effects of Bullying on Bystanders

Those who witness bullying behaviour may:

  • Be reluctant to attend school
  • Feel fearful, scared and guilty for not doing anything
  • Experience pressure to participate in the bullying
  • Become anxious and worried

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Need to talk?

If you are being bullied or are concerned about someone who is, you can receive help and support from one of our trained Mentors through our e-mentoring service.

If you would like a Mentor to email you, please contact: mentorsonline@bulliesout.com

If you would rather speak to someone over the telephone, you can call Childline on: 0800 1111

For any community-related issues, such as anti-social behaviour, we would suggest contacting your landlord, the local police or your local environmental health department (where applicable), as we are unable to deal with these types of complaints.