More than half of schoolchildren lie to avoid being bullied, while more than two thirds have said they were bullied for being too clever - or not clever enough.
New research has revealed nearly half of 8 to 15-year-olds have been bullied for their tastes in music or for not being good at sports. More than half (53%) admitted to lying to make themselves look better or to "fit in", with 64% saying they lie about what they do at weekends.
The figures, published by Beatbullying and Parentdish, also found nearly three quarters (75%) of schoolchildren were bullied in front of their teachers.
A recent survey found adults who were bullied at school were more likely to develop financial, social and health problems in later life. The study, led by Professor Dieter Wolke at University of Warwick and Dr William E. Copeland of Duke University Medical Center in the US and published in Psychological Science, looked at the impact on both the victims and the bullies themselves.
Those who were bullied were more than six times more likely to be diagnosed with a serious illness, smoke regularly or develop a psychiatric disorder.
At the time the survey came out, Emma-Jane Cross, CEO and founder of BeatBullying told HuffPost UK: "This groundbreaking study shines a light on what has been an overlooked subject for society and the economy. The findings demonstrate for the first time just how far-reaching and damaging the consequences of bullying can be.
“BeatBullying has been raising awareness of the devastating impact of bullying on young people’s lives for over ten years. But as this research reveals, bullying not only robs young people of their childhood, but can also severely damage a person’s future potential leaving them at greater risk of becoming impoverished.
“This research should be a wakeup call for us all. We need action now from Government, schools, families and communities. Solutions will only be found through a united movement against bullying.”
Useful websites and helplines:
Samaritans, open 24 hours a day, on 08457 90 90 90
Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393
Students Against Depression, a website by students, for students.
HopeLine runs a confidential advice helpline if you are a young person at risk of suicide or are worried about a young person at risk of suicide. Mon-Fri 10-5pm and 7pm-10pm. Weekends 2pm-5pm on 0800 068 41 41
Mental Wealth UK To join the community or launch a student group contact the charity on home@mentalwealthuk.com