Peer bullying instances among Turkish students see a concerning increase, according to professional evaluations
In a concerning development, the incidence of peer bullying among children and adolescents in Turkey has nearly doubled over the past four years, according to data analyzed by Selçuk University’s Faculty of Medicine. The data was drawn from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) in 2019 and 2023.
Dr. Hasan Ali Güler, a specialist in child and adolescent mental health, highlighted the importance of recognising bullying as a significant issue. He stated that one in every seven to eight children or adolescents is exposed to peer bullying at least once a week.
The causes of this rise are multifaceted. Many children who engage in bullying have themselves been victims of bullying earlier, indicating a cyclical pattern. Increased awareness among children means they are more likely to identify and report bullying behaviours. Peer dynamics and social environments in schools also contribute to the occurrence of bullying.
Victims of bullying often experience psychiatric distress and feelings of vulnerability and isolation. Bullying negatively impacts children's mental health and well-being, which can persist without proper intervention. Cyberbullying also significantly affects adolescent well-being, with studies indicating that coping strategies and forgiveness can mediate some negative effects.
To address this issue, families should maintain open, non-judgmental communication with their children to encourage sharing of their experiences. Early and collaborative intervention involving parents, teachers, school administrators, and mental health professionals is crucial. Psychiatric evaluation and support should be provided not only to victims but also to perpetrators to break the bullying cycle.
Schools need to foster comprehensive support systems that include psychological support and education programs promoting forgiveness and effective coping strategies. Broader community and healthcare involvement are needed to create safer and bullying-free environments.
Dr. Güler emphasised the critical role of these actions in reducing bullying’s prevalence and mitigating its adverse effects on Turkish children and adolescents’ mental health and development. He called on schools, families, and health care providers to work collaboratively in tackling the growing issue of peer bullying in Turkey.
Parents should avoid judgmental or critical responses when their children share negative experiences, as children subjected to bullying often feel vulnerable and isolated. Early communication with schools, involving teachers and school administrators, is essential to address bullying effectively. Understanding this pattern is crucial for families to respond appropriately, as noted by Dr. Güler.
[1] Selçuk University’s Faculty of Medicine data analysis [4] Studies on the effects of coping strategies and forgiveness on cyberbullying
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The increase in peer bullying among children in Turkey, as reported by Selçuk University’s Faculty of Medicine, raises concerns about the mental health and well-being of affected youth. Dr. Güler emphasizes the need for families, schools, and healthcare providers to work together to address this issue, as addressing it is crucial for reducing bullying’s prevalence and mitigating its adverse effects on mental health. In addition, studies on the effects of coping strategies and forgiveness on cyberbullying could provide valuable insights into helping adolescents cope with the negative impacts of bullying.
