The Biological Underpinnings of Peer Victimization: Understanding Why and How the Effects of Bullying Can Last a Lifetime
- 2 October 2013
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Informa UK Limited in Theory Into Practice
- Vol. 52 (4), 241-248
- https://doi.org/10.1080/00405841.2013.829726
Abstract
Recent research in the areas of neuroscience, neuroendocrinology, and genetics is reviewed providing convincing evidence for why and how the effects of bullying can last a lifetime. Specifically, the research reviewed herein indicates that (a) the brain experiences peer victimization in a similar way to physical pain, (b) peer victimization is robustly linked to dysregulation of the neuroendocrine response to stress, (c) certain genetic profiles place bullied children at greater risk for poorer sequelae, and (d) the experiences of peer victimization become biologically embedded in the physiology of the developing person, placing him or her at risk for life-long mental and physical health problems. These studies highlight the urgent need to prioritize the reduction of bullying.Keywords
This publication has 42 references indexed in Scilit:
- Childhood adversity and DNA methylation of genes involved in the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis and immune system: Whole-genome and candidate-gene associationsDevelopment and Psychopathology, 2012
- The pain of social disconnection: examining the shared neural underpinnings of physical and social painNature Reviews Neuroscience, 2012
- Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter densityPsychiatry Research: Neuroimaging, 2010
- 5‐HTTLPR moderates the effect of relational peer victimization on depressive symptoms in adolescent girlsJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2010
- Association Between Bullying and Psychosomatic Problems: A Meta-analysisPediatrics, 2009
- When Hurt Will Not HealPsychological Science, 2008
- Bullying at work, health outcomes, and physiological stress responseJournal of Psychosomatic Research, 2005
- Accelerated telomere shortening in response to life stressProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2004
- Influence of Life Stress on Depression: Moderation by a Polymorphism in the 5-HTT GeneScience, 2003
- Stress and development: Behavioral and biological consequencesDevelopment and Psychopathology, 2001