Social vulnerability peaks in youth and in times of stress. Growing up, we become more and more aware of ourselves and do not so easily succumb to peer pressure or cultural conformity. The brain keeps developing until the 19th year, and especially teenagers go through emotionally ups and downs since their frontal lobe - the 'cooling' part of their brain that keep emotions in check - is not yet fully developed. So I believe it is quite normal and common for young people to experience these problems with a fragile inner core and a highly emotional driven life that shows itself in a heightened awareness of gossip-like behavior that can turn in to real torment, especially when a bullying throng engages in smear campaigns with the goal of character assassination.

Actually using the the gerund 'ing' it not always best for correct English. When I was a teenager, I used to pay attention to what people (had to say option!) said about me. In high school, at a private institution, it was very important to have good marks and be popular. However, when I grew up, I discovered that the things that make us happy. For instance: to surround yourself with good and sincere people, enjoy every moment and to feel good about oneself.