In most, the average intensity of bullying increased between 2015 and 2018, then decreased between 2018 and 2022, which could be attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic. This bullying intensity index is built around six questions. Having an immigrant background was associated with the largest increases in the bullying intensity index, the study showed. In contrast, there were no significant differences in bullying intensity based on gender or socio-economic background among native students. Attending a more socio-economically advantaged school was associated with lower bullying intensity, the study showed.

Source: The Irish Times February 14, 2026 15:33 UTC