The subject of bullying has become a topic of academic interest over the past decade, as scientists and social scientists delve into the psychological and physiological effects for both the bullied and the bully. New research into bullying focuses on the relationship between social pain and physical pain. Social pain brought on by rejection and victimization predicts hormonal changes that can lead to health problems, such as high blood pressure, abdominal pain, headaches and joint pain. For example, changes in cortisol, “the stress hormone,” have been linked to being bullied.