Drug use and Bullying among Brazilian adolescents

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate possible relations between drug use and peer involvement in bullying among adolescents. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 1,192 school Brazilian adolescents. A sociodemographic information form, the DUSI R and the School Violence Scale were used. The consumption of alcohol, cocaine and some type of drug (except alcohol and tobacco) was associated with bullying author; the use of some type of drug (except alcohol and tobacco) was associated with bullying target (victim); and marijuana with bullying target/author. Being 12 years old, atheist and urban dwellers increased chances for victimization, while being 15 years old and living in the urban area, for being target/author; and 13 years, for being authors. Age, school location, and religion were relevant factors for the occurrence of bullying. Involvement in bullying situations in any position is associated with drug use.