Date

12-16-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Stacey Gaines

Keywords

spirituality, bullying, mental health, depression, anxiety, Puerto Rico, adulthood

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

Bullying experiences in childhood have been found to significantly affect mental health in adulthood, particularly through depression and anxiety. Spirituality has been identified as a protective factor for mental health, contributing to quality of life, satisfaction, and purpose. It may also buffer the effects of violence and bullying. This correlational study examined the relationships among childhood bullying, spirituality, and adult mental health in a sample of individuals from Puerto Rico (N=124). Specifically, whether spirituality moderates the relationship between childhood bullying and adult mental health outcomes. Results indicated that childhood bullying was moderately associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression, while spirituality showed only weak positive correlations with both. Spirituality did not significantly moderate the relationship between bullying and mental health, suggesting a limited protective role in this context. Taken together, the results emphasize the importance of addressing bullying early in life and promoting comprehensive interventions that include, but are not limited to, spiritual support to enhance long-term mental health outcomes.

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