Examining the pathways between overt and relational victimization, loneliness, phobic anxiety, and suicidal ideation

Background: Although previous studies have confirmed the adverse effects of being bullied on suicide, only few studies have established an association between overt and relational victimization and suicidal ideation simultaneously, and the mechanism of how these two forms of victimization triggers suicidal ideation remains unknown. Objective: This study aimed to expand the literature by exploring the relationship between overt and relational victimization and suicidal ideation and the potential function of phobic anxiety and loneliness. Method: An analytic sample of 552 students aged 13-16 years (52 % females) were recruited from 4 junior high schools. The collected data were analyzed by structural equation modeling. Results: The link from overt victimization to suicidal ideation was not significant as phobic anxiety fully mediated this relationship. Relational victimization was linked to suicidal ideation not only directly but also indirectly through loneliness. Conclusion: Unpacking the mechanisms underlying the link between overt and relational victimization and suicidal ideation is an essential concern for social workers and educators working with victimized students.