Bullying May Lead to Mental Health Problems later in Life, says Staten Island Pediatrician
Staten Island Pediatrician Michael Gabriel discusses a study conducted that concluded children who were bullied had a higher risk of developing mental health issues as they enter their middle age years.
BROOKLYN, NY, May 11, 2014 /KidZNewswire/ -- Dr. Michael Gabriel of GPM Pediatrics, a NYC based Pediatric Center comments on an article published by MSN News that states children who were frequently and occasionally bullied had a higher risk of having mental health issues later in life.
According to the article, "Researchers looked at data from the U.K.'s National Child Development study, on more than 18,000 people who were born during one week in 1958. Those children were followed up with at ages 7, 11, 16, 23, 33, 42, 45, and 50." During the first two check-ins at ages 7 and 11, parents reported whether their children were bullied or not. The rest of the check-ins followed up on psychological distress, general health, and mental health issues as they got older.
The results of this particular study concluded that 28 percent of children had been occasionally bullied while 15 percent were frequently bullied. The bullying was more common among males and whose parents were less involved in their lives. In addition, bullying was associated with lower education levels, higher risk of depression and suicide, anxiety disorders, and lower perceived life satisfaction. Researchers concluded that the effects of bullying don't disappear after school is over as they often have lifelong implications.
Dr. Michael Gabriel says that these statistics are disconcerting and that children need to be educated on bullying and its effects, whether the child is being bullied or being the bully. "Nobody is born a bully. Whether it is the parents or the effects of the environment, all children need to be educated especially now that we know it can lead to distress later in life." Gabriel wants children to know that they can always talk to an adult if they are being bullied and parents should convey this message to their children.
Dr. Gabriel says "Bullying doesn't go away. The things that kids say sometimes are mean and will stick with a child for their entire life. It is important that we educate our children so that they don't develop mental health issues because of bullying." Gabriel urges parents to have numerous conversations throughout the year with their children about bullying or what occurs when they're not around, especially after a recent school change, a move, or a new school year.
GPM Pediatrics provides comprehensive pediatric care to children throughout the New York area with practices both in Brooklyn and Staten Island. Our board certified pediatricians and experienced staff help provide a very warm and nurturing environment for both you and your children. Our approach combines the latest treatment methods with the personal attention you should expect from your doctor. Simply put, we understand the importance of communication and trust and we are earning that trust one family at a time.
Media Contact: Scott Darrohn, GPM Pediatrics, 855-347-4228, takara@fishbat.com
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Categories: Health, Lifestyle
Source: GPM Pediatrics