Bullies have a higher risk of developing eating disorders, depression

Feelings of guilt could lead to indulge in binge eating and purging

Contrary to popular perception, it is not just victims but even bullies can be at an increased risk for anxiety, depression and eating disorders, according to a study.

The researchers studied 1,420 children and found that those who bullied others were twice as likely to display symptoms of bulimia, like binge eating and purging, when compared to kids that did not bully.

Lead author William Copeland explained that this maybe because teasing may sensitise them to their own body image issues or even experiencing guilt afterward could provide an impetus for symptoms like binge eating followed by purging or excess exercise.

The findings of the study will be published in the next issue of the International Journal of Eating Disorders, according to IANS.