Connections between peer bullying and substance use. Prevention and intervention potentials of the peer education approach

Abstract

Neither peer bullying nor substance use are newly emerging social problems, but their persistence makes them a relevant issue for both the individuals and the societies. These problems may have devastating consequences on the person’s health, and substance use may seriously influence the welfare of the individual, the family and the entire society. In addition, peer bullying has its impact on the members of the given community. The atmosphere of aggression impairs one's psychological and bodily functions and general performance, with an increase in risk-taking behaviours and substance use. After reviewing the professional literature, I will focus on the potential relationship between peer bullying and substance use, and the prevention and intervention potentials inherent in peer education. Programmes to prevent peer bullying and substance use should be implemented at an early age as these are not the problems in themselves. As symptoms they may inform the professionals about the dysfunctions in the individual’s life, in the family, in the community and the broad environment. Programmes raising health awareness should be introduced and the peer education approach seems a feasible option for this purpose. As a conclusion, the author highlights the importance of the theme and the pressing need to identify and seek effective means of problem management.