3 Behaviors in Adulthood That Reveal That You Were a Victim of Bullying at School
Whether physical, verbal or psychological, school bullying can have a significant impact on the lives of victims, well after their schooling. A sad reality illustrated by worrying figures. In France, more than one student per class is concerned victim of harassment, according to a national survey published in February 2024. In total, more than twelve million students are affected.
This numerical vision makes it possible to measure the extent of harassment and to fear its consequences in adulthood. Psychologist Claire Petin identifies and analyzes three behaviors that can result from harassment experienced during childhood.
1. Behaviors suggestive of trauma
According to several studies, including British works published in March 2024, traumatic experiences during childhood significantly increase the risk of psychological disorders in adulthood.
“Victims of bullying during childhood are more likely to suffer from chronic depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, sleep disorders, suicidal thoughts and poor general health as they grow up,” says Claire Petin. They may also develop low self-esteem, diminished self-confidence and a distortion of their body image. The consequences of these traumas can also include an increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder, addictions and self-harming behaviors. aggressive”.
2. Difficulties relating to others
As adults, victims of harassment often experience difficulty establishing and maintaining relationships of trust, whether romantic, friendly or professional, identifies Claire Petin.
“They can develop limiting beliefs, distrust of others and an anxious/avoidant attachment style, which complicates the creation of healthy and secure social bonds,” analyzes the specialist. These relational difficulties can also be accompanied by a fear of abandonment and a constant need for validation and reassurance, making social interactions particularly anxiety-provoking”.
3. An obstacle to professional growth
The consequences of school bullying can, in adulthood, have an impact on professional opportunities and long-term income, continues the psychologist. Victims, who often feel a fear of failure, rejection and sometimes suffering from imposter syndrome, may experience difficulty integrating into their work environment and would be more likely to be victims of certain practices and abusive behavior.
“Lack of self-confidence can make decision-making difficult, leading them to avoid situations where they have to put themselves forward, thus reducing their opportunities for professional and financial progression,” warns the psychologist.
The importance of psychological support
Claire Petin insists: it is essential for people who suffer from these invisible wounds and who live with indelible scars, to seek support from mental health professionals in order to obtain the help they need to overcome the consequences of harassment and find a more peaceful life.
“School bullying is a major public health problem whose long-term repercussions should not be underestimated,” she continues. As adults, physical and mental health, interpersonal relationships, career and financial management can all be affected. It is therefore crucial to continue to develop and implement prevention and intervention strategies from childhood”.
Every bullied child is an adult in the making who deserves to be supported, understood and protected.
Harassment in all its forms
When it continues outside of school via digital communications, it is called cyber-harassment. Each victim perceives and experiences these attacks in a unique way, which can make understanding the impact of these different forms of harassment particularly complex because it is subjective.
“A student is a victim of harassment when he or she repeatedly experiences negative acts from one or more students. Negative behavior can occur when a student, or a group of students, inflicts discomfort on another student, whether physically (hitting, pushing, stamping, pinching, restraining others) or verbally (threats , taunts, teasing and nicknames). Negative actions can also be manifested without words or physical contact (grimaces, obscene gestures, ostracism or refusal to accede to the wishes of others).”
Definition given by Dan Olweus, psychologist and taken up by the Ministry of National Education.
3018 is a free, anonymous and confidential number available 7 days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. intended for students, parents and professionals. You can also go to 3018.fr or download the 3018 application.
Sources
Blanchflower, D. G., & Bryson, A. (2024). The adult consequences of being bullied in childhood. Social Science & Medicine, 345, 116690. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116690
Švecová, J., Furstova, J., Kaščáková, N., Hašto, J., & Tavel, P. (2023). The effect of childhood trauma and resilience on psychopathology in adulthood: Does bullying moderate the associations?. BMC psychology, 11(1), 230. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-023-01270-8
Wolke, D., & Lereya, S. T. (2015). Long-term effects of bullying. Archives of disease in childhood, 100(9), 879–885. https://doi.org/10.1136/archdischild-2014-306667