Are depressed kids bully magnets?

Psychologists, not to mention parents, have long observed that kids who seem depressed tend to have trouble getting along with – and being accepted by – their peers.

A new study, published by Karen P. Kochel, assistant research professor at Arizona State University, provides evidence that kids who show signs of depression ultimately suffer socially because they are shunned by their peers and attract the attention of bullies.

"Bullies target youth who are unlikely to fight back," says Kochel. "Youth who are depressed really have the potential to appear vulnerable, and are easy marks for victimization, unfortunately."