Previous research investigating the relationship between peer victimization and emotional or psychological difficulties has suggested that peer victimization is predictive of symptoms of depression. This study further examined this relationship by analyzing self-administered questionnaires completed by 2,680 students in Victoria, Australia. The cohort study surveyed students 3 times over the course of 2 years, twice in 8th grade and once in 9th grade. Anxiety and depression were measured using the revised clinical interview schedule and peer victimization was measured as having ever been bullied at either or both survey times in 8th grade. Results of statistical analyses revealed that self-reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in 9th grade were significantly associated with reported peer victimization during one or both survey times in 8th grade. Newly reported peer victimization in 9th grade was not associated with symptoms of anxiety or depression. Finally, after controlling for other variables, peer victimization remained positively associated with symptoms of anxiety or depression in girls, but not in boys. The authors assert that their results hold implications for how seriously the issue of peer victimization is treated and also for how mental health intervention programs are designed. References