How peer victimization affects mental health in adolescents

Behavioral and neurocognitive mechanisms linking peer victimization to adolescent psychopathology

NIH-funded research Northeastern University · NIH-10902045

This study looks at how being bullied or feeling left out can affect teenagers' mental health, like causing anxiety and depression, and aims to find ways to help prevent these issues by understanding how these experiences impact their feelings and social interactions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNortheastern University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10902045 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between peer victimization and mental health issues in adolescents, focusing on how experiences of rejection and lack of positive social interactions can lead to problems like anxiety and depression. The study aims to understand the underlying behavioral and neurocognitive mechanisms that contribute to these issues, using advanced models to analyze how peer threat and peer deprivation impact emotional responses and social behaviors. By identifying these mechanisms, the research seeks to inform prevention strategies for mental health problems in youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have experienced peer victimization or bullying.

Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 12 to 20 or who have not experienced peer victimization may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and intervention strategies for mental health issues in adolescents affected by peer victimization.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of peer victimization on mental health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.