Physiological Effects of Bullying

Bullying is an all-too common part of growing up, with many kids either the perpetrators or victims of some kind of intimidation and bullying during their school years. Research has shown, however, that both victims and perpetrators of bullying end up as victims of the abuse; evidence suggests that there are harmful effects for both groups.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse

• Studies have shown that those who commit bullying are statistically more likely to engage in drug and alcohol abuse in later life. This mirrors their victims, who are often psychologically scarred by the bullying experiences they had as children and turn to drugs and alcohol to help them with anxiety attacks and other issues.

Physical Strength

• It makes sense that bullies tend to be physically larger and stronger than their victims, and those they pick on tend to be physically smaller and weaker. This physiological difference is statistically supported; with the majority of bullies being identified as bigger than their peers. The old idea that "all bullies are cowards" might indicate why their victims are generally smaller, weaker and less likely to retaliate against physical abuse.

Eating disorders

• Victims of bullying often display a lack of appetite and unwillingness to eat. This is because of the psychological effects of being bullied, and the anxiety and stress it causes. It also contributes to the fact that many victims of bullying are physically smaller than their peers.

Unexplained Cuts and Bruises

• Unexplained cuts, bruises and other injuries can often be signs of those who are both the victim of, and perpetrators of, bullying. Victims will often have cuts and bruises caused by punching, kicking and other physical attacks. Bullies themselves will often have bruised knuckles and other injuries caused in abusing others. One common sign in both groups is a refusal to discuss how they came about these injuries.