The relationship between peer victimization and post-traumatic stress symptomatology in a rural sample

Abstract

Peer victimization (PV) has been associated with a number of negative psychological sequelae. Few studies, however, have examined the relationship between PV and the symptomatology of posttraumatic stress disorder, and no studies to date have examined this relationship in a rural sample. Adapted versions of the SEQ-SR and the TSCC were used to assess the relationship between PV and post-traumatic stress symptomatology in a sample of 244 rural youths (ages 10-14) in two school districts in a south-central area of the United States. In addition to a positive relationship between PV and post-traumatic stress symptomatology, the results indicated relatively high rates of adult presence and peer bystanding during PV experiences. Limitations and implications for practice are discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.