Violence Exposure and Self-esteem of School Going Adolescents in a Metropolitan City: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Background: Violence exposure in light of peer victimization and witnessing peer victimization is a common phenomenon in schools across the globe. The present study conceptualizes exposure at three personal levels: a) as a victim, b) as a witness, and c) as a perpetrator. Method & Materials: A semi-structured interview schedule and Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale were used as study tools. Results: The findings of the study show that the entire sample had experienced violence in one form or the other in school and had witnessed the same as well. Few of the adolescents had committed violence to take revenge and settle the score for being bullied. Victimization and witnessing violence in school triggered feelings like hurt, helplessness, sadness, and anger, whereas on committing violent acts feelings of joy, fun, content and satisfaction in adolescents. Twenty per cent of adolescents had low levels of self-esteem and had average levels of self-esteem. The results showcase the reasons for bullying for fun, to hurt, to oppress or dominate others, due to personal grievances, jealousy, and growing less tolerance. Conclusion: Violence exposure to adolescents at school needs intervention. Keywords: Adolescents, violence exposure, bullying, self-esteem