School Connectedness Shields Bullied Adolescents from Depression

A recent study published in BMC Public Health highlights the significant role of school connectedness in reducing depression among adolescents who experience peer bullying. The research demonstrates that feelings of belonging, safety, and happiness within the school environment can buffer against the mental health impacts of being victimized by peers during teenage years.

School connectedness was assessed based on students' perceived inclusiveness, closeness, and overall safety at school. The findings reveal that bullying during adolescence is associated with increased anxiety and depression symptoms, more so than during childhood. This heightened vulnerability may be attributed to teenagers’ increased social sensitivity and the stronger influence of peer relationships during adolescence.

The study analyzed data from 2,175 adolescents born between 1998 and 2000, focusing on ages 9 and 15. Researchers examined experiences of bullying in childhood, adolescence, and cumulatively to understand long-term effects. Results showed that nearly 12% of participants faced bullying at both ages, with another 43% bullied at age 9 alone, and 5.7% at age 15 only. Notably, adolescence emerged as a critical period where bullying had more profound psychological effects.

Co-author Dr. Nia Heard-Garris emphasized the importance of fostering school connectedness through strategies like peer support and collaborative activities among students. These approaches can enhance social bonds and mitigate the mental health risks associated with bullying.

The study underscores the need for educational environments that promote inclusion and peer support to protect vulnerable teens from depression linked to peer victimization. Creating a supportive school climate can be a vital step in improving adolescent mental health and resilience against bullying-related distress.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-bullied-teens-depressed-school.html