A new study by NYU and Columbia University found that being classified as overweight in school fitness reports does not lead to short-term changes in body mass index for female students. The researchers analyzed data from over 3 million public school students and found a small increase in BMI among those newly identified as overweight.
A UT Dallas study found that students who were bullied in third grade did not have a greater risk of using drugs or alcohol by ninth grade. However, children who experienced the highest level of victimization smoked cigarettes or used alcohol at higher rates than high school peers.
A new eight-week intervention program, called the Early Childhood Friendship Project (ECFP), has been shown to significantly reduce relational bullying and aggressive behavior in preschoolers. The ECFP uses puppets, stories, and activities to teach social skills and empathy.
A study in mice reveals a specific brain region, the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamus, is responsible for aggressive motivations that lead to violence. The research suggests targeting this region could lead to better control of aggressive behaviors without sedation.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that sustained stress impairs memory and cognitive function in mice, with inflammation caused by the immune system being a key factor. The study suggests potential targets for pharmacological or behavioral treatment to interrupt inflammation and improve memory.
Premature babies born with low birth weight are more likely to be bullied and develop depression, anxiety, ADHD, or antisocial behavior in adulthood. Childhood bullying significantly increases their risk for mental health problems, particularly anxiety disorders.
A new Northwestern University study found that about a third of adolescents experience severe and ongoing bullying, which can lead to major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study also highlighted the importance of addressing these patterns in schools through policies and programs.
A new UCLA-led study reports the success of a Finnish anti-bullying program called KiVa, which improves the mental health of sixth-graders who experience bullying. The research-based program includes role-playing exercises and computer simulations to increase bystander empathy and intervention.
A multi-tiered approach to stopping bullying is proposed, with recommendations for peers, parents, schools, and new media platforms. Peers can defend victims by sharing emotional reactions and offering support, while parents can facilitate communication about incidents through training.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that bullying significantly impacts the positive youth development of sexual-minority youth. The research used data from a survey of over 1,800 adolescents and revealed that these youths scored lower on key indicators such as competence, confidence, and connection ...
A University at Buffalo-led study will examine the effectiveness of Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse among adolescents who have experienced multiple traumas. NET, a cognitive behavioral therapy, helps participants reconstruct fragmented memories into a clear, persona...
A new UCLA study found that when victims share highly personal feelings online, bystanders show lower levels of empathy and blame the victim more. The researchers suggest that oversharing personal emotions violates social media unwritten rules, making others more vulnerable to attacks.
Researchers found that students who are socially influential can shape their peers' behaviors and social norms, leading to a 30% reduction in student conflict reports. The Roots program, which engages these student influencers in spreading anti-conflict messages, is a promising solution to curb school bullying.
A Finnish study found that children who were frequently bullied or exposed to bullying had a higher risk of developing psychiatric disorders in adulthood. Treatment for these disorders was associated with frequent exposure to bullying, being a bully, and being exposed to bullying.
Research at Lund University finds that 75% of employees experience rudeness, leading to stronger social support and increased risk of bullying; training for staff and managers is key to addressing unpleasant behavior.
A new University of Michigan study found that kids and teens taking ADHD medications are twice as likely to be bullied by peers than those without ADHD. Middle school students who sold or shared their medications were four-and-a-half times more likely to be victimized.
A comprehensive study found that bullying and physical fighting prevalence varies greatly across countries; in wealthy but unequal nations, education investment reduces physical fighting rates
A study published in International Journal of Eating Disorders found a surprising link between bullying and eating disorders, with victims and bullies alike at increased risk. Children who were victims of bullying had nearly twice the risk of displaying symptoms of anorexia and bulimia compared to those not involved in bullying.
A new school safety project, Project SOAR, aims to use mobile apps and high school youths to prevent violence by promoting student involvement and restorative justice. The $1.6 million project will utilize technology-based tools and involve students in developing a school safety framework.
A new study has identified 28 barriers to mental health services for US adolescents affected by bullying, including inadequate screening and counseling by medical providers. The findings highlight the need for improved communication between medical providers, school officials, and parents to ensure access to mental health services.
A study published by JAMA Pediatrics found that students in states with antibullying laws including at least one U.S. Department of Education-recommended legislative component had lower odds of reporting bullying and cyberbullying compared to those in states without such provisions.
A comprehensive study of 25 US states found that compliance with antibullying laws reduces rates of bullying and cyberbullying by 24% and 20% respectively. The study identified three critical components of successful anti-bullying state laws: school intervention, clear definitions, and local policies.
A pilot study found nearly half of pediatric ED patients exhibit mental health symptoms, underscoring the need for early identification and treatment. The study aims to reduce stigma and provide quality medical care by incorporating mental health screening into emergency department assessments.
A study of 13,583 US adolescents found that exercise for 4+ days a week reduces sadness and suicidal ideation by 23%. Exercise was associated with significant reductions in sadness, suicidal ideation, and attempt across all students, particularly bullied teens.
A groundbreaking Australian pilot project, led by Martina McGrath, will provide a unique, non-clinical approach to care for suicidal persons. The Suicide Attempt Survivors Support Group will inject hope, connectedness, inclusion, and purpose into the lives of those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
A study published in Vision Research found that amblyopia, or 'lazy eye,' alters the brain's visual pathways, making it harder for the brain to adapt to using the weaker eye. The research suggests a potential new approach for treating vision disorders, including adults.
Research by Linda Pagani suggests that excessive early childhood TV viewing is linked to social skill deficits and increased risk of victimization by peers. Daily screen time exceeding 1-2 hours may lead to poor eye-contact habits and decreased social interaction.
A pilot study by researchers at ISTAR found that video self-modelling (VSM) helps reduce stuttering frequency in adults who experienced relapse after therapy. Participants watched videos of themselves speaking fluently, with improved results for those viewing their videos regularly.
A review of 36 studies found a consistent relationship between cyberbullying and reports of depression among children and adolescents. The study also identified common forms of cyberbullying and coping strategies used by victims.
A large study found that teenagers who experienced frequent bullying were more than twice as likely to develop depression later in life. The study analyzed data from over 3,800 participants and suggested that antibullying interventions at school may help reduce depression in later years.
A comprehensive review of over 40 years of research on bullying reveals its complex nature and negative impact on victims. The study suggests that bullying is a distinct form of interpersonal aggression, with long-term effects that can endure into adulthood.
A study by Dr Christine Sprigg found that social support from managers and co-workers, as well as personal optimism, can mitigate the negative effects of witnessing workplace aggression on employees' psychological wellbeing. Co-worker support was particularly significant in limiting burnout from witnessing aggression.
New research finds that childhood bullying has a greater negative impact on teenager's mental health than being maltreated, with bullied children five times more likely to experience anxiety and nearly twice as likely to report depression and self-harm at age 18.
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that children who experienced bullying had worse long-term mental health problems than those who were maltreated by adults. The research, led by Professor Dieter Wolke, analyzed data from over 5,000 participants and found that being both bullied and maltreated increased the risk of o...
Researchers found that victims of bullying fare worse in the long run than maltreated children, with those who experienced both facing increased risk of depression and self-harm. The study suggests a need for more efforts by schools and policymakers to address bullying.
A trio of studies found that bullying, whether face-to-face or electronic, significantly increases the risk of depression, suicidal thoughts, and carrying weapons to school. Victimized teens are more likely to carry weapons to school and skip classes.
Researchers found that more resilient teens were less likely to suffer negative consequences from extreme online exposure, regardless of their level of internet usage. The study emphasizes the importance of empowering teens with coping strategies to manage online risks rather than relying solely on abstinence.
Over 7,000 pediatric leaders will attend the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) annual meeting, showcasing original research on child health topics. The meeting features a wide range of presentations, including sessions on bullying, teen texting and driving, and health care for immigrant children.
A new study found that students are more likely to intervene and defend a fellow student based on values of altruism, leadership, courage, having LGBT friends, and beliefs in justice. With up to 28% of LGBT students reporting threats or injuries at school, the findings can help shape new programs to make schools safer.
A three-year study found that students with disabilities who participated in a social-emotional learning program experienced a 20% decrease in bullying perpetration. The researchers suggest that the program helped these students better manage their impulses, reducing reactive aggression and improving overall behavior.
A QUT study found that 59% of students perceived traditional bullying as worse than cyberbullying, citing physical harm and emotional impact. The research aims to raise awareness about the importance of involving students in anti-bullying programs.
A new study by Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego confirms the high prevalence of mental health problems among transgender youth. Treatment with puberty blockers and cross-gender hormones improves depression, anxiety, and self-cutting behaviors in most patients.
In a study, 221 college students observed bullying in an online chat room and often judged the abuser indirectly by giving them bad marks or reviews later. Only 10% of students directly intervened, but many expressed regret at not doing so afterwards.
A new study found that LGBT teens who come out at school have higher self-esteem and lower levels of depression as young adults. Researchers analyzed data from the Family Acceptance Project and found that coming out was associated with better well-being outcomes. The study suggests that being open about one's sexual orientation or gend...
A study of 12 years of observations of chimpanzee playground fights found that chimps with higher-ranking moms are more likely to win. However, the mothers did not intervene in most cases, letting their offspring fight their battles for themselves.
A study of over 1,000 Spanish teenagers reveals that 83% have fallen victim to at least one form of violence during their lives, with cyber-bullying affecting 12.6%. The research highlights the need for prevention and support for children who experience multiple forms of violence.
Researchers identified four promising approaches to prevent intimate partner violence and sexual violence among adolescents, including school-based interventions, psychological support interventions, community-based interventions, and parenting interventions. These strategies show promise in preventing violence in high-income countries...
A new social sensing game created at Illinois detects bullying behavior and identifies classroom bullies more effectively than traditional research methods. The game analyzes students' interactions in real-time, revealing behaviors like private messages and negative nominations.
A study published in Current Biology found that aggressive chimpanzee males sire more offspring, suggesting sexual coercion is an adaptive strategy for males. Genetic evidence showed that high-ranking males who intimidate females when they are not swollen had more reproductive success.
A recent ISU study found that exposure to violence, lower IQ, and psychopathic tendencies are significant risk factors for youth offenders charged with murder. The study analyzed over 1,300 serious youth offenders and identified five key risk factors that distinguish homicide youth offenders from non-homicide offenders.
A study by University of New Hampshire researchers found that 14% of school-age children were physically assaulted at school, while 48% experienced some form of victimization. The survey revealed high rates of intimidation and bullying, emphasizing the need for effective violence prevention programs.
A study by Iowa State University researchers found that workplace bullying victims often feel silenced due to fear of being disbelieved. Supportive co-workers and managers can help create a culture where victims feel heard and believed.
A study of 951 LGBTQ+ youth found that adult connections at school buffered bullying's consequences, reducing aggressive and suicidal behaviors. Educators can access resources to support LGBTQ+ students through organizations like GLSEN.
A 10-week group counseling and caregiver training intervention, GIRLSS, has been found to decrease relational aggression among middle school girls. The study, published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies, showed a reduction in 'mean girl' behaviors among participants.
Researchers analyzed data from Sweden, UK, and US, finding obese teen boys earn up to 18% less than peers. The study attributes the penalty to lower cognitive and non-cognitive skills linked to obesity, bullying, and discrimination. Targeting early-life obesity could reduce socio-economic inequalities.
A study found that frequent Facebook use and inability to regulate social media consumption make individuals susceptible to phishing attacks. Social media phishing is used in various crimes, including home invasion, cyber bullying, and espionage, highlighting the need for understanding why people fall victim to such scams.
Children who experience bullying between ages 8-10 are at increased risk of sleep-related problems like nightmares and night terrors by age 12. The University of Warwick study suggests stress may play a key role in the association.
A recent study published in School Psychology Quarterly found that cyberbullying increases with age, especially during transitions from elementary to middle school. The research highlights the importance of targeted interventions to address gender- and culturally sensitive bullying prevention strategies.
A study of over 18,000 students found that frequent family dinners were associated with lower rates of mental health problems in teenagers, particularly those who experienced cyberbullying. The research suggests that family dinners can provide a protective buffer against the negative effects of cyberbullying.
A McGill study found that family meals can reduce the negative impacts of online bullying on adolescent mental health. Cyberbullying victimization was linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use among adolescents with fewer family dinners.