Tracing the hidden links between sadness, aggression, and peer victimization in adolescents

Abstract

This letter critically reviews a recent longitudinal network study by Bai et al examining the dynamic, symptom-level interplay among peer bullying victimization, depression, anxiety, and aggression in Chinese adolescents. The study highlights that key symptoms, such as persistent sad mood, sleep disturbances, and cyberbullying victimization play a pivotal role in reinforcing the vicious cycle between mental health issues and bullying experiences. While the application of cross-lagged panel network analysis offers a nuanced understanding of these bidirectional relationships, several limitations remain, including the use of self-reported measures and a region-specific sample. Nevertheless, the findings underscore the urgent need for early screening and targeted interventions in school settings, particularly those addressing both emotional symptoms and digital forms of bullying. Moving forward, integrated and culturally sensitive approaches are essential to prevent escalation and break the link between peer victimization and adolescent psychopathology. Future research should incorporate multi-informant data and broaden the cultural context to strengthen generalizability and intervention design.

Keywords: Peer bullying; Depression; Anxiety; Aggression; Cyberbullying; Longitudinal network analysis

Core Tip: Bai et al’s study demonstrates that specific symptoms especially sad mood, sleep disturbance, and cyberbullying victimization drive the reciprocal relationship between peer bullying and adolescent mental health problems. This finding calls for early, symptom-focused interventions and comprehensive school-based strategies that address both traditional and cyber forms of bullying. For lasting impact, future research and prevention efforts should prioritize multi-source data and culturally adaptable approaches.