A review of psychological factors related to bullying victimization in schools

School bullying is a serious problem affecting the victims, their daily life, and society in general. An increasing amount of research on school bullying has recently been published which calls for an updated review on the literature. The objective of this article is to review psychological variables which may explain individual reactions to bullying victimization in school-aged children. The selected psychological variables are coping, social support, attachment, negative affectivity/neuroticism, and somatization. The strengths and limitations of the reviewed research are discussed, and future research directions focusing on a more dynamic understanding of personal factors are suggested.

► Attachment may act as a risk/protective factor in becoming a victim of bullying. ► Negative affectivity may predispose some children to become victims of bullying. ► Victims of bullying lack the use of adaptive coping strategies and social support. ► Victims of bullying report higher levels of somatic symptoms. ► Future research needs a more dynamic understanding of personal factors.