Workshop on Current Challenges and Proposed Solutions regarding Peer Bullying among Children and Adolescents
The “Peer Bullying Workshop,” coordinated by the Türkiye Maternity, Child and Adolescent Health Institute, was held with the participation of academics who are experts in their fields, healthcare professionals, educators, and representatives of relevant institutions. The workshop addressed peer bullying—which affects the psychological, social, and academic development of children and adolescents—from a multidimensional perspective and evaluated its causes, risk factors, short- and long-term effects, and approaches to prevention and intervention.
During sessions conducted in light of scientific evidence, the effects of physical, verbal, social, and cyberbullying on child and adolescent health were discussed. Particular emphasis was placed on the protective roles of schools, families, and society; the establishment of safe learning environments; early identification; and the development of effective intervention mechanisms. The importance of strengthening children’s psychological resilience, enhancing safety in digital environments, and promoting interinstitutional cooperation was also highlighted.
The workshop considered recommendations for expanding awareness-raising activities aimed at preventing peer bullying, strengthening protective and preventive practices, improving coordination between the education and health systems, and supporting evidence-based policymaking processes. Participants agreed that the assessments and recommendations produced by the workshop should contribute to policymaking processes, protective practices, and future scientific research concerning the prevention of peer bullying.
