The Mediating Role of Resilience in the Relationship between Bullying and Mental Health among University Students

Abstract

Bullying is a chronic psychosocial issue that persistently undermines the psychological welfare of students in higher education institutions. This study examined the association between bullying and mental health outcomes among university students, with resilience tested as a mediating factor. A quantitative cross-sectional correlational design was employed, using a sample of 400 undergraduate and postgraduate students from a private university in Pakistan selected through purposive sampling. Standardized self-report measures were administered to assess bullying experiences, resilience, and mental health outcomes. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression-based mediation analysis in SPSS. Findings indicated that bullying had a significant negative impact on mental health outcomes, meaning higher bullying exposure was linked with worse psychological health. Bullying was also significantly associated with lower resilience, whereas resilience showed a positive association with better mental health outcomes. Mediation results confirmed that resilience significantly and partially mediated the relationship between bullying and mental health. The study recommends implementing resilience-building programs, anti-bullying policies, and accessible mental health support services in universities.