Influence of Unperceived Victimization on Adolescent Well-Being.

Abstract

Background: Bullying has been shown to have negative consequences on the health and well-being of adolescents. Some students may experience various bullying behaviors and not consider themselves victims, finding themselves in a situation of unperceived mistreatment. Few studies have focused on the relationship between self-reported victimization behaviors and self-identification as a victim. Our objective is to determine the prevalence of unperceived victimization and analyze its relationship with adolescent distress. Methods: A total of 964 adolescents aged between 12 and 19 years participated. Standardized instruments were used to assess psychological distress, bullying in the last month and previous years, perception of victimization, and resilience. Results: More than 20% of adolescents are in a situation of unperceived victimization, not recognizing themselves as victims despite reporting bullying behaviors. Among girls and middle adolescence, perceiving oneself as a victim increases the likelihood of feeling distress. The likelihood of experiencing distress increases with previous victimization and decreases with high resilience. Conclusions: Mental health professionals should consider bullying as a factor of distress in adolescence. It is essential to refer adolescent victims of bullying to specialized mental health resources to adequately address their well-being and increase resilience as a protective factor.