The study found that college students who were victims of bullying had significantly higher depression scores and more somatization symptoms, such as feeling dizzy, having chest pains, and having difficulty breathing for no apparent reason. (Image credit: Kobiz Media)
SEOUL, March 6 (Korea Bizwire) –A study released on Saturday revealed that more than 1 in 10 college students who were victims of childhood bullying went on to attempt suicide in early adulthood, which is more than double the rate of students who did not experience bullying.
The study also suggests that the effects of bullying in childhood can persist into adulthood.
The research paper titled “Effects of Childhood Victimization on Psychological and Emotional Difficulties and Suicide in Early Adulthood” was published in the latest issue of the Korean Youth Studies Association’s “Youth Studies Research” by professor Park Ae-ri from Sunchon University and professor Kim Yu-na from Yuhan University.
The study surveyed 1030 college students aged 19 to 27 across the country in September 2020 about their experiences with bullying and whether they had thought about or attempted suicide, and analyzed their responses. Bullying included physical assault, teasing, threats, or theft of money by children around them.
The results showed that 34.3 percent of the surveyed students had experienced verbal or physical violence and bullying at school before the age of 18. Of the college students who experienced bullying, 54.4 percent said they had considered suicide, and 13 percent had attempted suicide.
In contrast, among college students who did not experience bullying, 36.2 percent reported having thought about committing suicide, and 5.2 percent had attempted suicide.
The study found that college students who were victims of bullying had significantly higher depression scores and more somatization symptoms, such as feeling dizzy, having chest pains, and having difficulty breathing for no apparent reason.
The researchers emphasize that school violence-related measures mostly focus on punishment as a means to prevent violence, and the recovery process for victims is still insufficient. They suggest that childhood experiences of bullying should be considered when screening and intervening with populations at risk for depression and suicide in colleges and universities.
The study provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of childhood bullying and highlights the need for appropriate interventions and support for victims.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
