Correlates of Bullying Victimization among Adolescents in the English-Speaking Caribbean

• In Event: The School Environment, Crime, and Juvenile Delinquency

Abstract

This paper examines the associations between being bullied and potential adverse effects, namely psychological distress and increased risk behaviors, among adolescents in four Caribbean countries (Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Suriname). The paper relies on multivariate analysis of data from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey administered in the Caribbean between 2007 and 2011. Our findings reveal a significant association between being bullied and all four forms of psychological distress measured: social isolation, anxiety, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation. We also find a significant association between being bullied and early sexual activity, smoking, drinking, truancy, and having been in a fight. Implications for school policy will be discussed.

Authors

• Edward Maguire, American University

• Mary Vriniotis, Inter-American Development Bank

• Anthony D. Harriott, University of the West Indies