Bullying Linked to Chemical Changes in Brain That Increases Risk of Psychosis [Study]

Bullying is more dangerous than previously thought. According to a new study, it is linked to a greater risk of psychosis.

Bullying Linked to Psychosis

A new study from the University of Tokyo found that bullying has been connected to a neurochemical shift in the brain that raises the possibility of symptoms resembling insanity. Disconnection from reality, or psychosis, can manifest in several diseases, including schizophrenia. The researchers discovered that although the psychotic episodes these teenagers went through did not fit the criteria for a psychotic illness diagnosis, there was a definite elevated risk of hallucinations, abrupt changes in behavior or thought processes, and paranoia.

"Studying these subclinical psychotic experiences is important for us to understand the early stages of psychotic disorders and for identifying individuals who may be at increased risk for developing a clinical psychotic illness later on," said Naohiro Okada, lead author of the study and project associate professor at the University of Tokyo's International Research Center for Neurointelligence.

The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of the brains of Japanese teenagers was the site of the measurement of glutamate levels. One neurotransmitter in the brain that controls emotions and cognitive function is called the ACC. The glutamate levels were compared between when the adolescent was bullied and when they weren't. They also considered if the teenager had asked for assistance due to the bullying.

Along with an increased incidence of psychotic episodes, the investigators found that being bullied had a major impact on the youths' well-being. Scientists previously recognized that bullying at school might be highly determinantal to an adolescent's wellness. However, no prior research has been done on the relationship between glutamate levels, ACC, bullying, and teens.

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Sibling Bullying Results to Introvert Personality

Sibling bullying is a type of psychological violence that occurs between family members and, according to preliminary research, is one of the most frequent disturbances that occur in homes. Initial and independent research indicates that about thirty percent of sibling aggression is documented as physical attacks and that bullying between siblings is mostly regarded as a type of child abuse. Although 10 to 40 percent of bullying cases are repeated, researchers think that many bullying incidents go unreported.

The three pillars of sibling bullying are intentional actions, recurrent behaviors, and power imbalances. When these conditions are satisfied, bullying occurs and can spread to other group members by verbal, emotional, and physical violence. Name-calling, humiliation, and intimidation are some more manifestations.

Another study discovered that those who experienced bullying between the ages of 11 and 14 developed problems with their psychological well-being when they reached the age of 17. Furthermore, the conditions are not straightforward issues; instead, they are paired with an introverted trait in contrast to individuals who had stronger relationships with their siblings. It's also mentioned that the siblings who bully their other family members may have been bullied themselves.