Prevalence of bullying victimization and its association with self-perceived health, psychopathology, and suicidality: A nationwide population-based survey in Taiwan

Abstract

The current study aimed to assess the prevalence of bullying victimization (BV) and its association with psychopathology and suicidality in a nationwide general population. The target population were all the people living in Taiwan, the study samples were obtained by the following processes. A computer-assisted telephone interview was performed to identify potential respondents using telephone numbers selected with the stratified proportional randomization method. Self-reported data were evaluated. Moreover, data obtained using the validated Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS-5) and Concise Mental Health Checklist (CMHC) were used to evaluate psychopathological symptoms and overall suicidal risks, respectively. Results were further analyzed using the chi-square tests and logistic regression model. In total, 1930 respondents from a national general population survey were included in the analysis. The weighted prevalence of lifetime BV in the general population was 13.5%. Based on the chi-square analysis, individuals exposed to BV were at high risk for psychopathology (a BSRS-5 score of ≥6 (x2=45.5, P≤.001) and high BSRS-5 scores for all five items). Bullying exposure was significantly associated with lifetime suicide ideation and suicide attempt (x2=85.7, P≤.001; x2=17.0, P≤.001, respectively). The help-seeking behavior of respondents exposed to bullying did not differ significantly (x2=4.6, P=.327). Bullying exposure is associated with recent psychopathology and lifetime suicidality. Multifactorial interactive processes contribute to long-term harmful health implications in adulthood. Nevertheless, further research on the relevant mechanisms associated with bullying and potential interventions that can decrease morbidity must be conducted.