Disclaimer: The views expressed in this paper are those of the authors and may not reflect those of the Australian Institute of Family Studies or the Australian Government.
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Research Article
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Bullying in early adolescence and its association with anti-social behaviour, criminality and violence 6 and 10 years later†
Article first published online: 3 MAR 2011
DOI: 10.1002/cbm.805
Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Issue
1471-2857/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=8968cfbb7e4388f1807bd13dc26069cb57d2681e "Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health")
Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health
Special Issue: Criminal Consequences of School Bullying
Volume 21, Issue 2, pages 117–127, April 2011
Additional Information
How to Cite
Renda, J., Vassallo, S. and Edwards, B. (2011), Bullying in early adolescence and its association with anti-social behaviour, criminality and violence 6 and 10 years later. Criminal Behav. Ment. Health, 21: 117–127. doi: 10.1002/cbm.805
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Publication History
- Issue published online: 3 MAR 2011
- Article first published online: 3 MAR 2011
Abstract
Background Few longitudinal studies have examined the links between engagement in bullying and later anti-social behaviour for both males and females.
Aims This study aimed to examine the association between adolescent bullying behaviour and subsequent anti-social behaviour, among a community sample of Australian males and females.
Methods Regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between bullying perpetration at age 13–14 and anti-social behaviour, criminal violence and contact with police or courts 6 and 10 years later among approximately 800 young adults participating in a 27-year longitudinal study. The analyses controlled for known risk factors for anti-social behaviour at age 13–14 years.
Results Moderate significant associations were found between bullying perpetration and subsequent anti-social behaviour. Associations were more powerful for males than females, and for short-term than long-term outcomes. Engagement in bullying remained a significant predictor of later anti-social behaviour and contact with police or courts even after other risk factors were accounted for.
Conclusions These findings suggest that bullying in adolescence may be a marker of risk for a continuing pattern of anti-social behaviour, particularly among young males. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.