Bullies likely to have mental health issues

Children identified as bullies were more likely to be diagnosed with mental health problems.

This is according to new research.

Those diagnosed specifically with depression were three times more likely to bully.      

Those diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder, where hostile and angry behavior is often directed toward authority figures, were six times more likely to be a bully.

Dr. Elaine Schulte with Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital says, "These are kids who are hurting. Bullies don't intentionally act out on other children. They can't control their behavior and parents need to deal with it, schools need to deal with it and it's a real problem nationwide."         

Doctors say these children often need professional help to control their behavior.