The Impact of Bullying on Students’ Emotions, Peer Relationships, and School Absence

Abstract

Peer violence, commonly conceptualized as bullying, constitutes a pervasive challenge affecting students both globally and within North Macedonia. Beyond its immediate psychological and emotional impact on victims, bullying shapes the overall school climate, influencing students’ safety, inclusion, and well-being. Victimization is associated with elevated fear, social withdrawal, and disrupted peer relationships, which can reinforce cycles of aggression. Empirical analyses indicate that supportive peer interactions reduce the likelihood of being targeted. The study further highlights that awareness of bullying and students’ emotional experiences are crucial for understanding the dynamics of peer victimization. These findings underscore the multifactorial and systemic nature of bullying and emphasize the importance of promoting resilience and fostering positive peer relations to ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive educational environment.