What makes bullies and victims in Korean elementary schools?

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the predictive factors associated with school bullying and victimization among Korean elementary students. The data gathered from the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey (KCYPS) was used in the analysis, which involved logit modeling and negative binomial regression modeling of a generalized linear model in deriving the relationships among the student individual characteristics, family background, and school life factors obtained from 2011 6th graders. The major findings can be summarized as follows. First, negative self-esteem was significantly associated with both the experience of bullying and victimization. Second, physical exercise in school were found to reduce both the experience and frequency of bullying. Third, negative family background variables were found to increase the frequency of victimization. Fourth, student commitment to school rules was associated with the frequency of bullying and victimization. This research suggests that a positive increase in student self-esteem, athletic activities, cooperation between school and home, and democratic school rules and execution can serve as positive factors in reducing school bullying and victimization.