THE PSYCHOLOGICAL TOLL OF HIGH SCHOOL BULLYING: SOCIAL ANXIETY AND COPING STRATEGIES IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the enduring impact of high school bullying experiences on social anxiety among university students. Utilizing online semistructured interviews conducted via Zoom, data was gathered from eight (N=8) university students who selfidentified as victims of bullying during their high school years. The interview questions asked participants about the nature of bullying experienced, the dynamics of the bullyvictim relationship, the psychological and emotional repercussions, and the coping mechanisms employed. The collected data underwent a rigorous thematic analysis employing Braun and Clarke's (2013) sixstage approach. The findings reveal a significant association between high school bullying and subsequent social anxiety. The analysis uncovers six prominent emergent themes: (1) Emotional and Verbal Bullying, (2) Physical Bullying, (3) the relationship between Bully and Victim, (4) the Psychological and Emotional Impact of High School Bullying, (5) Social Anxiety and Adjustment to University Life, and (6) Coping Strategies. These themes contribute to a deeper understanding of the participants' past experiences, illuminating the enduring effects of high school bullying on psychological wellbeing. The significance of this research is discussed concerning its implications for educational institutions, mental health services, professionals, interventions, and future research directions. The study advocates for further investigations in this area, given the longterm implications on the mental health of victims, and contributes to the growing body of literature positing bullying as a significant public health concern.

Keywords

• High school bullying
• social anxiety
• university students
• psychological and emotional impacts
• thematic analysis

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