The Impact of Bullying on the Mental Health of Students: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Bullying in educational settings, encompassing physical, verbal, and cyberbullying, poses significant risks to students' mental health. This literature review employs a systematic approach to analyze findings from recent studies, revealing a strong correlation between bullying victimization and increased rates of psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem among adolescents. The review synthesizes evidence showing that both traditional and cyberbullying lead to profound and lasting mental health challenges, with victims exhibiting higher levels of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation compared to their non-victimized peers. Key moderating factors, including social support, school environment, and coping strategies, are identified as critical in influencing the severity of these effects. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive prevention programs, psychological support services, and effective anti-bullying policies in schools to create a safe and supportive environment. By addressing the multifaceted impacts of bullying, stakeholders can enhance students' overall well-being and mitigate the negative psychological consequences associated with victimization.