Types and Prevalence of Peer Victimization among Secondary School Students in Osun State, Nigeria: Implications for Counselling

Abstract

The study investigated the types and prevalence of peer victimization among secondary school students in Osun State. This was with a view to improving peer relationships among secondary school students. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study consisted of junior secondary school students in Osun State. Multidimensional Peer Victimization Scale was used to elicit information on the types and prevalence of peer victimization. The result showed that four types of peer victimization were experienced by the students and there was high prevalence of peer victimization among school going adolescent. These types were widespread among secondary school students. The study therefore concluded that peer victimization was a recurring problem among secondary school students and could be reduced through appropriate counseling of students. The implications of the findings to counseling services were discussed.