This study investigates the relationship between recurrent peer victimization and the onset of self-reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in young teenagers. Conducted over two years in secondary schools in Victoria, Australia, the study surveyed 2680 students in year 8 (aged 13) and once in year 9. The prevalence of victimization was 51% at the second survey point, and 18% to 20% reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. The incidence of these symptoms in year 9 was significantly associated with victimization reported once or twice in year 8. After adjusting for social relations and sociodemographic factors, recurrent victimization remained predictive of symptoms of anxiety or depression for girls but not for boys. Newly reported victimization in year 9 was not significantly associated with prior symptoms of anxiety or depression. The study concludes that a history of victimization and poor social relationships predict the onset of emotional problems in adolescents, and that previous emotional problems do not significantly relate to future victimization. These findings have implications for the treatment and prevention of mental health issues in adolescents.This study investigates the relationship between recurrent peer victimization and the onset of self-reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in young teenagers. Conducted over two years in secondary schools in Victoria, Australia, the study surveyed 2680 students in year 8 (aged 13) and once in year 9. The prevalence of victimization was 51% at the second survey point, and 18% to 20% reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. The incidence of these symptoms in year 9 was significantly associated with victimization reported once or twice in year 8. After adjusting for social relations and sociodemographic factors, recurrent victimization remained predictive of symptoms of anxiety or depression for girls but not for boys. Newly reported victimization in year 9 was not significantly associated with prior symptoms of anxiety or depression. The study concludes that a history of victimization and poor social relationships predict the onset of emotional problems in adolescents, and that previous emotional problems do not significantly relate to future victimization. These findings have implications for the treatment and prevention of mental health issues in adolescents.