Abstract

The conclusions drawn from the long-standing tradition of research on peer violence unequivocally indicate a range of negative consequences affecting the mental health of children and adolescents. Numerous studies have confirmed that the health status of bullying victims is significantly worse compared to their peers who have not experienced similar situations. However, it should be noted that these consequences may be long-term in nature. Longitudinal studies have demonstrated the destructive impact of peer violence on mental health in adult life. Adult victims of bullying have struggled with depressive and anxiety disorders as well as difficulties in forming and maintaining satisfying social relationships. These difficulties have also extended to their functioning in family and professional roles. The main aim of the planned publication is to highlight the negative significance of the retrospective psychological factor, namely the experience of school peer violence as a victim, for mental well-being in adult life. The research was conducted using a qualitative method – the main axis of the analysis of the obtained results within twenty in-depth individual interviews with young adults is the concept of mental health as a complex process of continuous response to challenges associated with stressful situations. In this context, bullying was not only a strong stressor but also a factor negatively impacting the developing resources during adolescence that allow for the maintenance of mental health, such as stable self-esteem, highly developed interpersonal skills, social support network understood as friendships, or internal locus of control. The overwhelming majority of interview participants pointed to chronic consequences of bullying for health and social life. The participants struggle with a distorted self-image, high levels of anxiety in social relationships, and episodes of depression. It is also worth noting that respondents demonstrated a high level of awareness regarding mental disorders and took appropriate steps to regain mental health by seeking professional psychological support. The conclusions from the conducted research indicate the necessity for an in-depth analysis of the problem of peer violence as a risk factor for the development of mental disorders in adults, which also entails practical implications. Based on the obtained data, it can be inferred that there is a need to implement specific and systemic solutions within mental health care dedicated to adult victims of bullying, which will strengthen weakened resilience resources regulating mental health.