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Bullying is a form of abuse of a social power dynamic used against a person or group of people to cause intimidation or harm. When bullying occurs, there is often an imbalance in power between the two parties. Although it commonly occurs during childhood, bullying can affect anyone of any age, race, sexuality, class, or gender.
Bullying may be persistent and can potentially cause serious psychological damage to the afflicted person or group. The long-term effects may involve low self-esteem, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or suicidal thoughts. The articles in the bullying advice section may help you learn how bullying affects others, understand why people bully, and learn positive coping strategies to combat this behavior.
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Medically reviewed by Julie A. Dodson, MA, LCSW
As many resources for bullying are aimed at children, it may seem that bullying is a children's issue. However, people of all ages can be bullied, and adults may also experience this social form of abuse.
Bullying may occur when someone takes advantage of another person in a social setting to humiliate, belittle, or scare them. Bullies may engage in these behaviors because of low self-esteem or as an attempt to take their pain out on others. Understanding possible causes of bullying and how to cope with it healthily may result in a better quality of life for survivors and those who want to change their bullying behavior.
Is bullying caused by insecurity?
People who engage in bullying may have insecurities they try to avoid or hide by establishing a perceived dominance over other people and groups. They may seek unique, sensitive, or socially awkward individuals as targets of this behavior to give an "excuse" for their abuse. They may be coping with self-loathing about parts of themselves they're uncomfortable with. For example, perhaps they were bullied as a child for being emotionally open, so as an adult, they bully other people for being emotionally open.
The tie between bullying and the presence or absence of insecurity can be personal. However, a shared experience could involve a lack of control in one's life and a lack of an outlet to express emotions healthily.
What can adult bullying look like?
Bullying can happen to anyone. It can occur in adulthood at work, university, or other social settings, such as online groups. Adults with perceived differences or sensitivities may also be at a higher risk of bullying.
However, survivors are not to blame, regardless of why they are bullied. Bullying can cause significant psychological and sometimes physical impacts. Support is available if you're experiencing bullying, and you're not alone.
How to find support as a survivor of bullying
Finding support as a survivor of bullying can be difficult. In some cases, bullies may try to isolate survivors or manipulate them into believing seeking help won't impact their current situation. As a result, survivors may be inclined to keep their experiences to themselves.
However, multiple forms of support are available to those who have experienced bullying, and you're not alone. Therapeutic intervention can support survivors, offering strategies to boost resiliency and self-confidence, which may result in a higher overall quality of life.
Can survivors of bullying benefit from therapy?
Therapy can be an effective form of support for survivors, offering them a safe space to speak up about what has occurred. However, some individuals may find it challenging to seek this support in person, especially if they have been intimidated into silence. In these cases, online platforms like BetterHelp may seem more approachable.
Through an online therapy platform, individuals can get matched with a therapist with experience in treating those who have been bullied. In addition, they can set therapeutic goals before getting matched and find a provider who fits their needs. Some platforms also offer unique resources, including worksheets and group sessions to connect with others with similar difficulties.
A recent study evaluating the overall effect of cyberbullying states that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective options for those who have experienced bullying. Additionally, a meta-analysis of over 60 studies found that online therapy is especially effective for those with anxiety disorders, depression, and other mental health conditions. These diagnoses may occur in concurrence with bullying incidences or due to bullying, which can make online therapy a helpful resource.
Takeaway
Bullying can be challenging across all cultures, subgroups, and ages. Understanding the implications and possible causes of bullying can allow parents, educators, and individuals to take a preventative approach to managing their own or a child's risk factors for being a bully or being bullied. You're not alone if you or someone you love has been living with this challenge. Therapy through an in-person or online platform may guide you in finding further personalized support.