As classrooms become increasingly diverse and globalized, the phenomenon of "racial bullying" has emerged in recent literature as a distinct and particularly damaging subset of bias-based harassment. Unlike general peer victimization, racial bullying targets immutable aspects of a student’s identity—including ancestry, skin color, and cultural heritage—leading to unique psychological and physiological outcomes. Current research findings highlight that racial bullying results in significantly higher rates of clinical distress, suicide, and substance misuse. Employing a narrative review methodology, we identified and analyzed peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025 retrieved via ERIC, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases to ascertain the research landscape on racial bullying within a global context. This presentation synthesizes current research to define the specific mechanics of racialized aggression, distinguishing it from general bullying through its roots in systemic power imbalances and societal stereotypes. Additionally, this presentation explores the comparative experiences of students in the United States and international contexts. Most importantly, this presentation identifies vital protective factors and evidence-based interventions that mitigate these harms and build student resilience at both the individual, school, and community levels. Through increased awareness of race-based bullying and its unique impacts, teachers, researchers, and policymakers can promote schools and classrooms that cultivate global citizenship and education for peace in the 21st century.

Authors:
Tameka Grimes, Wake Forest University, United States
Mike James, The Ohio State University, United States
Lauren Ghoston, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Tameka O. Grimes is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling at Wake Forest University. Her current project focuses on addressing the mental health impacts of racial trauma for children and adolescents of color in rural schools.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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