Young people reveal what actually stops bullying and loneliness
A new study asked 35 young adults what prevents bullying and loneliness from spiraling into mental health crises. Their answers challenge how schools and employers currently design anti-bullying programs—and suggest protective factors that existing interventions largely ignore.
Originaltitel: Bullying among young people and health-promoting factors: Young people’s perspectives
<p>Several factors influence young people's mental health, and exposure to bullying is a risk factor. Bullying and cyberbullying are strongly associated with loneliness; however, little research has been carried out on this topic. This study aimed to explore the causes of bullying among young people, and the protective mechanisms and preventive work that can promote well-being, as seen from young people's perspectives. A qualitative exploratory design and content analysis were conducted. The interviews were done with 35 young people (aged 17-28 years). Three main categories were identified: (1) Causes of bullying, intervention, and mitigation; (2) Protection against the harmful effects of bullying and loneliness; and (3) Prevention and promotion of well-being as solutions. Nine subcategories were identified in this study. Further research could explore interventions to prevent bullying in school settings, focusing on how bullying prevention programs are implemented, and how school staff and guardians perceive and work with bullying issues.</p>