Social and Demographic Associates of School Bully Behavior in Indian Pupils

Abstract

Bully activities at school have a long-term detrimental effect. Though the types and manifests of this damaging behavior are studied, there is a paucity of evidence on its social determinants. Aim and Objective: This study explored the socio-demographic determinants of school-bullying in a central India district. Methods: Cross-sectional data were compiled over one year from 480 participants by simple random method from urban and rural schools. The bully Prevalence Questionnaire (BPQ) and socio-demographic information questionnaire were used. Questionnaires in English and Hindi language were commissioned to cater to the participants’ need. SPSS Vs. 21 was used for data analysis at P ≤ 0.05. Results: The urban vs. rural divide was noticable (ꭓ2; p -0.033). Boys involvement was dominant (66.2% vs, 30.4% and ꭓ2; p -0.00). Father’s occupation and family income were the important social determinants (ꭓ2 value p -0.00, ANOVA p - 0.02, and 0.05). Victimization per se was noticed more among girls as compared to boy’s (r .310** vs. .144*). Children of unskilled workers were more often a party to school bullying (r .317**). Father and mother’s educational levels were strong players in deciding students’ prosocial skills (ANOVA p -0.014 and 0.00). Participants’ self-esteem score was influenced by family income (ANOVA p -0.00). Conclusion: Involvement of boys at high number was a matter of concern. The skewed number in favour of children from unskilled working families necessitates the attention of social reformists and policymakers. Improved education of parents is also vital in curbing this social evil.