Understanding and Addressing Bullying in Children and Adolescents

Bullying among children and adolescents is a complex and widespread problem with profound psychological, social, and legal implications. It includes physical, verbal, relational, sexual, and cyber forms involving perpetrators, victims, and bully-victims. This narrative literature review synthesizes findings from studies published between 2000 and 2024 across disciplines including psychology, education, public health, and law. Data were sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on global and Indonesian contexts. Bullying arises from a combination of individual traits (e.g., impulsivity and poor emotional regulation), family dynamics (e.g., insecure attachment and low cohesion), and school and cultural influences. Theoretical frameworks such as the social learning and attachment theories help explain how bullying behaviors are learned and reinforced. Neurobiologically, bullying acts as a chronic stressor that dysregulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thereby increasing the vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders. Legally, many countries, including Indonesia, have implemented child protection laws that emphasize restorative justice. Interventions such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children, Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy, and school-based programs such as KiVa and Olweus have effectively reduced bullying and promoted psychosocial well-being. Addressing bullying requires a comprehensive multilevel approach that integrates psychological, educational, familial, and legal strategies. Sustainable and culturally relevant interventions supported by collaboration among schools, families, and policymakers are crucial for fostering safe and supportive environments for children and adolescents.