Bullying among American teens remains a major concern, with more than a third (34 per cent) reporting being bullied in the past year, according to recent government data. The report, issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), shows the prevalence and impact of bullying on youth aged 12 to 17. Defined as exposure to repeated aggressive behaviour over time by one or more people, bullying can leave lasting mental health scars, especially when victims feel unable to defend themselves.

Based on responses from a federal youth health survey conducted between 2021 and 2023, the report shows certain groups are more vulnerable. Notably, girls reported higher rates of bullying than boys, at 38.3 per cent and 29.9 per cent, respectively. Additionally, younger adolescents reported slightly higher rates: 38.4 per cent of teens aged 12 to 14 faced bullying in the past year, compared to 29.7 per cent of those aged 15 to 17.

One group especially impacted is LGBTQ+ teens, with almost half (47.1 per cent) of gender and sexual minority youth reporting bullying incidents. This highlights the added challenges faced by LGBTQ+ teens, who often encounter bullying not only in schools but also in their broader social environments, compounding stress and mental health risks.

The psychological toll of bullying is substantial. According to the CDC’s findings, 29.8 per cent of bullied youth reported experiencing anxiety, a rate more than double that of their non-bullied peers (14.5 per cent). Similarly, self-reported depression was significantly higher among bullied teens, with 28.5 per cent experiencing symptoms compared to just 12.1 per cent of those who weren’t bullied. CDC researcher Amanda Ng and her team at the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) emphasized that bullying victimization is a pressing public health issue with potentially lifelong consequences.

The data underlines the importance of anti-bullying strategies, proactive support systems, and targeted interventions to help prevent bullying. Here are ways to help keep children safe from bullying:

- Encourage Open Communication: Establish a trusting relationship with your child so they feel comfortable discussing their experiences. Regular conversations about school, friendships, and online interactions can provide early signs of bullying.

- Educate on Bullying and Its Forms: Teach your child what bullying looks like, including physical, verbal, and cyberbullying. Helping them understand different forms empowers them to recognize it and speak up if they encounter it.

- Monitor Online Activity: Cyberbullying is common, and monitoring online activity can help. Set boundaries around social media use and encourage your child to report any instances of online harassment.

- Equip Kids with Coping Strategies: Teach children how to respond assertively and safely. Help them practice walking away, seeking help from a trusted adult, and using positive affirmations to build resilience.

- Build Support Networks: Encourage involvement in supportive social groups, clubs, or activities that promote positive self-esteem and offer friendship opportunities. Knowing they are not alone can strengthen children’s confidence and provide them with additional allies.

- Advocate for Anti-Bullying Policies: Get involved with your child’s school to support and promote anti-bullying policies, fostering a safer environment for all students.

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