Bullying and delinquency in adolescence: Victims' and perpetrators' family and peer relations

This study investigated (a) the prevalence and co-occurrence of various victimisation and violence experiences among adolescents and examined (b) the quality of peer and family relationships of victims and perpetrators of bullying and violent delinquency. Self-report questionnaires were completed by 1107 Swiss adolescents (grades 7 and 9). Frequency of involvement in bully/victim problems and delinquency was used to classify pupils. Bullies and bully-victims were often also victims and/or perpetrators of violent delinquency. Sex and school type effects were found regarding involvement in bully/victim problems and delinquency. Pupils who were bullied reported lower peer acceptance than bullies and non-involved pupils. Bullies as well as perpetrators and victims of violent delinquency reported lower family support than non-involved adolescents. Implications for prevention and intervention are discussed.