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Stress during pregnancy can cause bullying in your baby
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Children whose mothers were under stress during pregnancy are at risk of becoming the target of bullying and intimidation among their peers.
This is the conclusion reached by a team of scientists from the University of Warwick, led by Professor Dieter Walk. The results of the scientists' research were published in the journal Child Psychology and Psychiatry.
Previous studies by scientists have shown that maternal stress during pregnancy can cause behavioral abnormalities in the child. Prenatal stress can lead to the child having increased sensitivity and predisposition to allergic reactions, as well as an increased risk of developing asthma. However, the impact of the expectant mother's stress on the child's behavior and interaction with peers has not yet been studied.
To take a closer look at this connection and its consequences, scientists conducted a large-scale study involving 8,829 children and 14,000 mothers who carried children between 1991 and 1992. Until now, specialists have recorded the children's development and their behavioral reactions.
The mother's condition was assessed during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and the spouses' intra-family relationships were also assessed. With the help of preschool teachers and then school teachers, the level of upbringing of the observed children, their conflict proneness, temperament, and communication skills with peers were assessed.
Scientists have concluded that the child is indeed susceptible to the stress and anxiety that a pregnant woman experiences. This is reflected in his mental health and directly increases the child's chances of becoming a victim of ridicule and bullying among classmates.
The professor emphasizes that there are a large number of neurohormones that are released into the blood when a person is under stress. However, in the case of a pregnant woman, the danger is doubled - it can affect the future response of the baby's body to stress.
"Changes in the stress response can affect a child's behavior and cause them to suddenly overreact to a bully. These children become targets for ridicule and bullying from their peers," says Dr. Walkom.
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