Investigating the perceived long-term effects of childhood bullying on self-esteem in adult women

Abstract

This research investigated the long-term effects of bullying on self-esteem in adult women. This was done using semi-structure interviews, which were later, analysed using thematic analysis technique. Research claims that bullying lowers self-esteem hence there is a tendency for victims to have a low self-esteem during the experience. In addition, victims have a higher probability to develop psychopathologies such as depression. Similarly, the participants in this study suffered low self-esteem and some developed psychopathologies. Other themes that emerge during the bullying event are loneliness, guilt, humiliation, and sadness. Nonetheless, today they consider their self-esteem as normal. This was a result of their self-determination, maturity and a boost from family, friends, and school. This suggests that not all victims' self-esteem remain low if the right conditions are presented.