Identification of Bullying Behavior and Its Impact on the Mental Health of Elementary School Children
Keywords:
Bullying, mental health, elementary school, children, systematic reviewAbstract
Bullying in elementary school is a critical issue with long-lasting psychological consequences. This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to identify the types of bullying behavior and their mental health impacts on elementary school children. Using the PRISMA method, 30 peer-reviewed English-language journal articles were selected from 2010 to 2024 through databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. Inclusion criteria included relevance to elementary-aged children and direct mention of psychological effects. The analysis revealed that verbal and relational bullying are the most prevalent, often leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and social withdrawal. Vulnerable groups include children with disabilities, learning difficulties, or those lacking social support. The school environment plays a crucial role, as inadequate intervention often worsens the impact. This review highlights the urgency of implementing comprehensive, school-based intervention programs involving teachers, parents, and peers.
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