Self-Esteem and Tendency of Bullying among Primary School Children

Abstract

In this exploratory research, a mixed method research design was used to understand how primary school children perceive bullying behaviour and to uncover the extent of self-esteem on their bullying experiences. Two hundred and eighty participants took part in a survey of their bullying behaviour and self-esteem. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 children. Survey findings indicated that higher self-esteem leads to higher bullying behaviour. Further analyses within sub-samples defined by gender and ethnic subgroups revealed that there are differences in bullying behaviour across subgroups. In addition, qualitative interviews yielded three key themes including (i) physical and verbal bullying, (ii) relational bullying, and (iii) gender-based bullying.