Mental Health Impact of Bullying by Ethnic Peers in Senior Housing: A Study with Older Korean American Residents
2024

Bullying and Mental Health in Senior Housing

Sample size: 343 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Jang Yuri, Park Juyoung, Rhee Min-Kyoung, Lee Hi-Woo, Park Nan Sook, Chung Soondool

Primary Institution: University of Southern California

Hypothesis

The study examines the experience of peer bullying and its mental health effects among ethnic minority older residents in subsidized senior housing.

Conclusion

The study found that being a target of bullying significantly predicts depressive symptoms and anxiety among older residents.

Supporting Evidence

  • About 18% of the sample had been a target of bullying.
  • Over 31% had witnessed someone being bullied.
  • Being a target of bullying was a significant predictor for depressive symptoms.
  • Witnessing other residents being bullied was a significant predictor for anxiety.

Takeaway

Bullying can happen to older people too, and it can make them feel very sad or anxious.

Methodology

Surveys were administered to Korean Americans aged 65 and older in six senior housing facilities, and multivariate regression models were used to analyze the data.

Participant Demographics

Korean Americans aged 65 and older living in subsidized senior housing.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0136

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