About the project

Peer victimization (i.e., being the target of aggression or bullying by peers) has serious, negative effects on youth. Recent studies highlight rumination (excessively dwelling on one’s distress) as a key factor in prolonged suffering for victimized youth. Despite the belief that seeking social support is beneficial, supportive friendships, surprisingly, often leads to worse adjustment for victimized youth. DWELL examines co-rumination (excessively discussing distress with a friend) as an explanation for this paradox. Using various methods (e.g., longitudinal studies, social network analysis, daily diary, observation of friendship interactions), the goal is to investigate individual differences in the effects of victimization and (co-)rumination on mental health over different timeframes. DWELL aims to offer insights to parents, educators, and clinicians by identifying the youth most susceptible to the adverse effects of victimization, and highlighting healthy strategies for seeking social support.

DWELL includes a pilot study (SUPPORT) as well as a multi-methods primary data collection. The pilot study is currently on-going. 

The primary data collection for DWELL will take place during the 2025–2026 academic year. Students from participating schools will complete a survey (DWELL SURVEY) three times during the school year: in October, January and April. In addition, students from grades 7–9 can participate in the DWELL DAILY and/or TOGETHER subproject(s).

Please see the subpages for more information about each component of DWELL.

DWELL is part of the INVEST research flagship , which aims to improve the well-being of children and young people.