Bullying Articles

Many people may believe that bullying as an issue that affects children exclusively. However, people of all ages can be bullied, and it may be more common of an occurrence than one may think. Bullying is generally believed to occur when someone takes advantage of another person and makes him or her feel belittled, afraid, or humiliated. Bullies may engage in these behaviors as a result of low self-esteem, or as an attempt to take their pain out on others. Understanding possible triggers for bullying and how to deal with bullying in a healthy manner can result in a better quality of life for both survivors and those who feel inclined to rely on bullying behavior.

Below, we’re exploring the possible causes of bullying, and the role that online therapy can play in survivor recovery.

Insecurity And Bullying

When engaging in bullying, bullies may be trying to heal their insecurities by establishing a perceived dominance over other people and groups. They may choose to seek out those who have something unique or special about them, highlighting this factor as a reason for disdain. This can be a result of underlying insecurity in the bully on a personal, psychological level.

An example of this may occur when/if bully targets someone who is smaller than them or someone who appears shy. They may call attention to these differences or exaggerate them to make the target feel as if they cannot participate equitably with their peer group(s).  

The tie between bullying and the presence or absence of insecurity can be personal. However, a common experience for many can look like the appearance of a lack control in their own lives and they don’t have a healthy way to express their emotions — which may lead some to victimize someone instead.

What Does Adult Bullying Look Like?

When we hear about bullying, you may assume that it pertains to kids or the school system. However, bullying can happen to anyone. It can take place into adulthood, occurring at work, in friendships and romantic relationships as well. 

The environment may vary; however, it may occur more frequently when there is someone present in an ecosystem who wants to take their perceived deficits out on others. 

We do want to note that despite the surrounding situation of the bullying, victims of bullying are generally not to blame. The person that is being bullied may enjoy a higher quality of life if they are able to realize that they are not the problem, and that they do not deserve this unfair treatment — which may prompt them to seek support from third parties, therapists or their own individual family and friend groups.

Asking for Help With Bullies

Finding support as a survivor of bullying can be difficult. Many bullies may try to make their victims feel helpless, or as if seeking help won’t really impact their current situation. As a result, victims of bullying might feel inclined to keep their experiences to themselves. 

There are many alternative reasons why this can occur. The survivors of bullying might believe they’re a burden, and that they’re bothering someone if they reach out for help. They may truly believe that they can’t escape the bullying. However, therapeutic intervention can support survivors, offering them resources and strategies to boost resiliency and self-confidence which may result in a higher overall quality of life. 

How Can Survivors Of Bullying Benefit From Online Counseling? 

Someone that has been bullied can benefit from talking to an online therapist or counselor. After all — therapy can be a safe place for many to learn how to speak up and reach out. However, many survivors of bullying may find this difficult to do — especially if they have been physically or emotionally intimidated.  Online therapy offers a more convenient and approachable solution to many who wish to build the therapeutic skills without putting themselves at a higher risk of scrutiny or discomfort. BetterHelp can connect you with an online therapist in your area of need. 

Is Online Therapy Effective For Survivors Of Bullying? 

A recent study evaluating the overall effect of cyberbullying in the population has been quoted stating that CBT should be considered for those who have survived bullying experiences. Additionally, a meta-analysis of over 60 studies has found that online therapy is especially effective for those currently living with anxiety disorders, depression and other mental health conditions — such as bipolar disorder. These diagnoses may occur in concurrence with bullying incidences, or because of being bullied, which makes online therapy an especially promising avenue for full mental health recovery. 

Takeaway: 

Bullying is a serious concern that can take place across all cultures, subgroups, and ages. Understanding the implications and possible causes of bullying can allow parents and educators to take a preventative approach in managing their child’s risk profile, both for being a bully and for being bullied. Online therapy can be a helpful resource for survivors of bullying. BetterHelp can connect survivors with therapists in their specific area of need. 

The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.