Abstract
The aim of the present research was to examine the relationship between bullying victimization, self-esteem and psychosocial problems in adolescents. The present study also looked at the mediating role of self-esteem in relationship between bullying victimization and psychosocial problems in Pakistani adolescent. Sample was selected from different Government schools of Lahore, Pakistan. Total 499 participants were selected and they were falling within the age range of 13-17 years (M= 14.58; SD = 1.14). Peer relationship assessment instrument, Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale, Depression, Anxiety, Stress scale-21, and UCLA loneliness Scale were used for assessment. Data were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation analysis and Structural Equational modelling (SEM) through AMOS. It is found that bullying victimization has a significant negative relationship with self-esteem and significant positive relationship with psychosocial problems whereas self-esteem is significantly negatively correlated with psychosocial problems. Self-esteem partially mediates the relationship between bullying victimization (Social & Physical) and psychosocial problems. The findings highlight adverse impact of bullying on psychosocial well-being of the victims and also that self-esteem can play an important role in mitigating the effect of bullying. The findings highlight that need for provision of psychological services in Pakistani schools in order to reduce bullying and its implications for the victims.