CHILDHOOD VICTIMISATION AND PSYCHOPATHOLOGY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65164/qhhnmb52Keywords:
victimisation, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, PTSDAbstract
Childhood bullying, both in traditional and cyber forms, is a widespread public health issue with profound implications. Victimisation is a significant risk factor for the development of internalising problems (e.g., anxiety, depression, PTSD, somatic symptoms) and externalising problems (e.g., aggression, conduct issues) that can persist into adulthood. Suicidal ideation and behavior are identified as severe outcomes, with cyberbullying posing a particularly heightened risk. The relationship is notably bidirectional: children with pre-existing psychopathological conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, or depression, are at significantly greater risk of being targeted, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates their symptoms. This review analyses the complex, bidirectional relationship between childhood victimisation (bullying) and psychopathology, examining its forms, prevalence, and longterm mental health consequences.
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