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Individual Differences Research
2008, Volume 6, Issue 4


Bully/Victim Problems in Northern Ireland's Schools: Data from the 2000 "Young Persons' Behavior and Attitude Survey"

Author(s): Conor Mc Guckin; Pauline K. Cummins, Christopher Alan Lewis

DOI: https://doi.org/10.65030/idr.06021

Abstract: Comparatively little is known about the nature, incidence and correlates of bully/victim problems in the Northern Ireland school system. The aim of the present study was to examine the prevalence of self-reported experiences of bully/victim problems among a representative sample of 6,297 11 to 16 year olds living in Northern Ireland who participated in the 2000 'Young Persons' Behavior and Attitude Survey'. Respondents were presented with three questions enquiring explicitly about victimization. Across other non-explicit questions, respondents volunteered salient information about personal experiences of bully/victim problems. Almost half of all respondents (43.3%, N = 2,470) reported being a victim of bullying behavior. Bully/victim problems also pervaded personal experiences of school meal times, sporting activities, and perceptions of personal safety. These findings are placed within the context of previous findings.

    Keywords: School bullying; Students; Social surveys; Aggression; Northern Ireland

Pages: 280-288

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