Study finds widespread cyberbullying, signs of PTSD among teens

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — A study by Hasbro Children’s Hospital has found signs of widespread cyberbullying and peer violence among teens.

According to a news release Thursday, the study examined about 350 adolescent patients in the Hasbro Children’s Hospital emergency department. Nearly half of those teens said they were victims of either peer violence, cyberbullying, or both.

The study also found a large percentage of teens with signs of post-traumatic stress disorder. Nearly a quarter of teens surveyed reported having symptoms consistent with PTSD.

Megan Ranney, MD, who led the study, said it serves as a reminder to parents, schools, and doctors that bullying and violence are prevalent problems. She also said more should be done to identify and treat PTSD in teens.