Bullying Based on Identity: What Makes a Difference?

Bullying that targets someone's identity can have serious effects on young people. This isn't just about physical harm; it can mess with a kid's mind and emotions. Researchers have been studying this issue, but many studies have missed the mark by not looking at the bigger picture over time. A recent study tried to fill this gap by examining various factors that might make a difference in how often this kind of bullying happens. The study looked at data from 639 teens over 18 months. It also considered laws about bullying and hate crimes in different states. The findings were clear: kids who are part of the LGBTQ+ community or are from a racial minority background are more likely to face this type of bullying. However, there's a twist. LGBTQ+ youth experienced a drop in bullying over time, while heterosexual youth did not. So, what helps protect kids from this kind of bullying? The study found that having supportive friends, a loving family, and a positive school environment can make a big difference. Surprisingly, having strong anti-bullying laws in place didn't seem to make much of a difference. The study also found that school climate was a big factor in protecting kids from bullying. The study suggests that to tackle this issue, we need to focus on supporting vulnerable kids and creating a positive school environment. This means more than just having rules against bullying; it's about making sure kids feel safe and supported every day.