One in Five Teens Face Repeated Bullying, OECD Calls for Stronger School Action

A new OECD report shows that bullying remains widespread across countries, with one in five 15-year-olds reporting repeated exposure, and certain groups such as students with immigrant backgrounds facing higher risks. It finds that bullying harms mental health, learning and school climate, but clear national strategies, trained teachers and whole-school programmes can significantly reduce its impact.

Bullying remains one of the most serious challenges facing schools today. A recent report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, prepared by its Directorate for Education and Skills under the Education for Inclusive Societies project, draws on major international studies such as PISA, TIMSS and PIRLS to examine how common bullying is and how countries are responding.

The findings show that bullying is far from rare. Depending on how it is measured and the age group studied, between around 10 percent and nearly half of students report experiencing bullying at least once a month. Among 15-year-olds in OECD countries, roughly one in five students reports repeated exposure.

The difference in numbers often depends on how the question is asked. Surveys that simply ask students if they have been bullied tend to show lower rates. When students are asked about specific behaviours such as being excluded, mocked, threatened, hit or targeted by rumours, the rates are higher. This suggests that many young people experience harmful behaviour even if they do not label it as “bullying.”

Who Is Most at Risk?

Bullying does not affect all students equally. The OECD report finds that some groups are more exposed than others. Students with an immigrant background face higher risks, particularly boys from more advantaged families. Researchers suggest that students who stand out from their peers, whether because of background, identity or social status, may be more visible and therefore more vulnerable.

A student’s position within their school also matters. Those whose family background is very different from the average in their school are more likely to experience bullying. This shows that bullying is not only about individual behaviour, but also about social dynamics and power imbalances within school communities.

Importantly, most students report little or no bullying. However, a small minority experience it frequently and severely. This group faces the greatest risk of long-term harm.

The Hidden Impact on Health and Learning

The effects of bullying go far beyond hurt feelings. In the short term, students who are bullied are much more likely to report anxiety, depression and physical symptoms such as headaches and sleep problems. Many skip school to avoid harassment or because they feel unsafe.

Learning also suffers. Research shows that bullied students tend to perform worse academically. Mental health problems can make it harder to focus, participate and stay motivated. Over time, repeated bullying can increase the risk of dropping out of school.

There may also be long-term consequences. Some studies link severe and persistent bullying in adolescence to lower educational qualifications and weaker job prospects in adulthood. While not every bullied student faces lasting harm, those exposed to frequent and intense bullying are at greater risk.

The Ripple Effect on Schools and Society

Bullying affects more than just those directly involved. In schools where bullying is common, students report feeling less safe and less connected. Even bystanders, those who witness bullying, can experience stress and anxiety.

A negative school climate can lower overall academic performance and reduce students’ sense of belonging. This can create a cycle where poor climate and bullying reinforce each other.

There are also economic costs. Increased healthcare needs, time off work for parents, and reduced productivity later in life all add up. Some estimates suggest that bullying carries a significant financial burden for societies. Preventing bullying is therefore, not only a moral issue, but also an economic one.

What Works in Fighting Bullying?

Countries are trying different strategies to address the problem. Many have introduced or strengthened anti-bullying laws, clarified definitions and made reporting mandatory. Clear national frameworks appear to help, especially when schools are supported in implementing them properly.

Training teachers is crucial. Educators who feel confident and well prepared are more likely to step in when bullying occurs. Whole-school programmes have shown promising results. Initiatives such as KiVa in Finland, the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program and Italy’s NoTrap! Combine classroom activities, staff training and structured responses to incidents. Evaluations show they can reduce bullying by around 15 to 20 percent when implemented consistently.

However, broad prevention is not enough on its own. Even in schools where bullying levels fall overall, some students continue to suffer. These students need targeted support, including counselling and mental health services.

The OECD report sends a clear message: bullying is not an inevitable part of growing up. With clear strategies, trained staff, supportive school cultures and regular monitoring, it is possible to create safer and more inclusive schools. The benefits extend far beyond the classroom, shaping healthier, fairer and more resilient societies.