Navanitha M and Annalakshmi N
Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,
Pages: 385-397
Childhood bullying is a significant psychosocial stressor that can have long-term
consequences for psychological and social functioning, extending into emerging
adulthood. Although considerable attention has been given to the adverse outcomes of
bullying, understanding the psychosocial risk factors that may hinder resilience and
positive adaptation among individuals with childhood bullying experiences remains
important. The present study aimed to identify and explore the risk factors associated
with childhood bullying experiences among college students. Using a semi-structured
interview schedule, in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 college students (12
males and 12 females), aged 18-25 years, with a history of childhood bullying, from a
mid-sized city in South India. The data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.
The results revealed that marginalization, decreased sense of agency, uncongenial
family environment, social exclusion and silencing, insensitivity in school teachers
and authorities emerged as risk factors. These findings highlight that the consequences
of childhood bullying are influenced not only by the bullying experience itself but also
by adverse interpersonal, familial, social, and institutional contexts. Future research
should focus on early identification of these risk factors and the development of targeted
psychosocial interventions aimed at reducing distress and promoting resilience among
emerging adults with a history of childhood bullying.