The Long-Term Impact of Peer Victimization on Depressive Symptoms and Suicidal Thoughts

• In Event: Youth Victimization: Diverse Contexts and Psychosocial Consequences

Abstract

Introduction
For youth who experience peer victimization, there is an increased concern that they will also experience emotional distress in the future (Bonanno & Hymel, 2010). Adolescence is a period of trying to learn to navigate one’s social world, and a time when peer relationships are increasing in importance (Glick & Rose, 2011). These interpersonal relationships, whether positive or negative, can have implications for the long-term emotional health of youth. For youth who are victimized or belittled by their peers, there is an increased chance of these youth experiencing severe emotional distress. In some cases, this distress can lead to thoughts of suicide, and in severe cases even to attempts of suicide (Skapinakis et al., 2011).

When youth experience greater levels of peer victimization they begin to feel hopeless in regards to their social or interpersonal relationships, (Bonanno & Hymel, 2010). These experiences can make it difficult for youth to feel capable of developing positive relationships with their peers. When pervasive, these feelings of hopelessness can then lead to suicidal ideations. Adolescents frequently cite interpersonal problems as a precipitant to suicidal behavior (Heilbron & Prinstein, 2010). Adolescents who lack a positive social connection are at increased risk of adverse emotional outcomes, such as depression. For instance, for youth who are victims of bullying, cross-sectional studies have shown they are more likely to express suicidal ideations (Skapinakis et al., 2011).

Method
The present study examines longitudinally, how victimization is related to suicidal ideation. The youth (N = 191) were assessed across three time points on measures of victimization, depression, and suicidal ideation. The goal was to examine whether youth were victimized first, which then led to depression which in turn leads to suicidal ideation.

Results
The study will utilize longitudinal structural equation modeling to examine this relation. Presently, however, the results have not yet been fully analyzed. Preliminary results indicate significant relationships between victimization, depression and suicidal thoughts. Specifically, ANOVA results reveal that those youth who experienced the highest levels of victimization at Time 1 had more feelings of depression at Time 2, and those youth who had the highest levels of depression at Time 2 had the highest levels of suicidal thoughts at Time 3. Future analysis will utilize structural equation modeling; first, a CFA and tests of invariance will be conducted. Following that we will use the Cole and Maxwell (2003) framework to examine whether depression mediates the relation between peer victimization and suicidal ideation.

Conclusion
It can be very difficult for some youth to navigate the social world of adolescence. When youth are victimized or excluded by their peers, this can be an even more difficult task and may lead to feelings of depression and suicidal thoughts. This study aims to contribute to an understanding of the etiology of suicidal ideation for adolescents. It is important to begin to explore and gain a deeper understanding of why youth think about suicide, as it is these thoughts that lead some youth to take their own lives.

Author

• Lisa De La Rue, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign