Bullying is more than hurt feelings and social exclusion – it can leave deep, lasting marks on the brain. New research shows that it can physically alter brain anatomy, but scientists are also developing promising treatments to help victims recover.
Online bullying on the rise
While traditional playground bullying has declined in many countries, online harassment such as hateful messages, rumor-spreading, and exclusion from digital groups has grown rapidly in recent years.
Different forms of bullying
Bullying can be physical, verbal, or social. The most common involves repeated insults, threats, or systematic exclusion from social circles.
When genes play a part
Twin studies suggest that inherited traits can influence impulse control and empathy, making some children more likely to become bullies.
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The role of upbringing
An unstable home, lack of emotional support, or problematic relationships can create conditions for aggressive behavior toward others.
Group dynamics as a driver
Bullying can serve as a way to gain social status. Children may bully to avoid being excluded themselves or to strengthen their standing in a peer group.
The harm of bystander silence
When witnesses to bullying fail to intervene, bullies can interpret this as silent approval, leaving the victim more isolated and vulnerable.
Long-term consequences
Early experiences of bullying are linked to poorer school performance, lower income, higher unemployment, and poorer mental health in adulthood.
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Physical changes in the brain
MRI scans show that prolonged bullying can cause certain brain regions to grow or shrink, affecting emotions, decision-making, and stress regulation.
Increased sensitivity to social cues
Victims may become overly reactive to negative facial expressions, increasing their risk of social anxiety and low self-esteem.
Hope through therapy
A new form of cognitive behavioral therapy (BV-CBT) has been developed to help victims process their experiences, build positive thought patterns, and reduce the mental impact of bullying.
Article based on information from Videnskab.dk
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