Peer bullying among high school students and related factors

Objective: This study was conducted in high schools in order to determine peer bullying / victimization and related factors. Methods: In total, 1711 students were included in this cross sectional study. The data was collected by the researchers during school visits, through face to face interviews. The researchers used the survey form and the Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire. The statistical analysis was completed using Chi-square, independent t-test and logistic regression analysis (backward method). Results: The factors that increase the risk of victimization include: father having a higher education (OR: 1.670; Cl:1.249 - 2.198), drinking alcohol (OR: 1.999; Cl:1.402 - 2.852), perceived school success as average or below (OR:1.490; Cl:1.153-1.926), having 5 or fewer good friends (OR:1.392; Cl:1.076-1.801), spending more time watching television (OR 1.065; Cl: 1.003 - 1.131). Being male (OR:2.106; Cl:1.470 - 3.018), having a working mother (OR:2.031; Cl:1.348-3.061), smoking (OR: 2.085; Cl: 1.185-3.670) and drinking alcohol (OR:3.085; Cl:1.947-4.889) are the factors that increase the risk of bullying. Conclusion: The research clearly indicates that students who are both victim and bully have similar characteristics with victims and with bullying students in terms of their genders, parental characteristics, and smoking-drinking alcohol. It is suggested that initiatives regarding peer bullying are introduced that are aimed at enlightening and raising awareness of teachers, students and parents.