A Cross-Sectional Study on Bullying and Psychological Disturbances among Malaysian School Children

Abstract

Background: Bullying is a common violence in school and has become a major public health and global concern. Bullying influences mental health and is identified as a leading factor of depression. Therefore, this study aimed to identify bullying prevalence and its association toward psychological disturbances (stress, anxiety, and depression). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in three secondary schools in Kuantan. After obtaining consent from parents/guardians, participants were asked to answer a self-administered questionnaire, including School Climate Bullying Survey, Depression Anxiety Stress Questionnaire-21, Patient Depression Questionnaire, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Demographic data were self-reported. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0, and chi-square and correlation tests were conducted for variables. Results: A total of 207 students were included in this study. Of respondents, 50.7% were boys and 49.3% girls, and the majority (92.8%) were Malays. Of students, 63.2% were involved in bullying problems through the school years, with verbal bullying as the highest (55.1%). Bullying is significantly associated with stress (p = 0.045), anxiety (p = 0.018), and depression (p = 0.012). Conclusions: School children in Kuantan continue to be involved in bullying. The current study supported that involvement with any bullying activity was associated with psychological disturbances including anxiety, stress, and depression.

Keywords

• bullying
• child
• cross-sectional study
• malaysia
• psychology