When Bullying Takes A Toll On Children's Health

Joanna Dolgoff, M.D.

Pediatrician, Child Obesity Specialist, and Author of Red Light, Green Light, Eat Right!

The perception surrounding obesity is that it's caused by a lack of exercise and overeating, however, the condition is often driven by other factors, one of which is bullying. Bullying can spell serious trouble for children's health. Overweight kids are targeted more frequently, often while in gym class or playing sports, creating a vicious cycle that makes it more difficult for them to lose weight. Adding insult to injury, many times, children who are not good at dealing with their emotions become emotional eaters as well. These children are also more likely than others to have an ongoing chronic illness later in life, Irish researchers said recently.

The research team used a sample of 8,568 nine-year-old children and their families from Growing Up in Ireland -- the National Longitudinal Study of Children.

Children completed surveys at school and an interviewer administered questionnaires with parents and children in their homes. The findings revealed that obesity and other weight problems are of major concern in Irish children, with girls being more affected.

Another recent study that examines bullying at a younger age identifies overweight children as the primary target. Researchers at the University of Michigan surveyed 821 children ages eight to 11. In the third grade, 15 percent of the children were overweight and 17 percent were considered obese. A quarter of the 821 students admitted to being bullied; however, 45 percent of their mothers reported that their child had been bullied for his or her weight. The study included responses from children, parents and teachers.

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Sensei Chris Feldt
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