Spain reports rise in school bullying and cyberbullying

School bullying in Spain has increased to 14.1% of students, up from 12.3% in the previous academic year, according to the eighth report by Fundación ANAR and Fundación Mutua Madrileña. The study, which surveyed over 18,000 young people and 400 teachers, indicates that 7.9% of students experience physical bullying, while 3% face cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying cases have seen a notable rise of 7 percentage points compared to the previous year. A significant concern highlighted in the report is the persistence of these incidents; approximately one in four victims of physical bullying and 22.8% of cyberbullying victims experience harassment that lasts for more than a year.

Common drivers for bullying include differences in physical appearance, culture, race, or religion. While most students report incidents to teachers or support their peers, the study notes a higher tendency toward inaction among secondary school students.