The relationship between bullying victimization, social support, physical activity and internalizing and externalizing problem behavior among adolescents in the Netherlands

Abstract

There is an increase in internalizing problem behavior (IPB) and externalizing problem behavior (EPB) in adolescents in the Netherlands. Little is known about which factors are more strongly related to IPB or EPB among adolescents in The Netherlands. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aims to clarify these relationships. It examines the relationship between bullying victimization, social support (consisting of family, school and peer support), physical activity and IPB, EPB or both. Data from 8927 primary and high school students (51.2% girls; M age = 14,13, SD = 1.91) who enrolled in the Dutch survey study HBSC (Health Behavior in School-aged Children) from 2017 was used. Through a multiple hierarchical regression it was found that bullying victimization is related to higher rates of IPB and EPB. Social support is related to lower rates of IPB. Family and school support are related to lower rates of EPB. In contrast, peer support relates to higher rates of EPB. Physical activity is related to lower rates of IPB, but not related to EPB. By gaining insight in the factors that are related to IPB and EPB, this study provides guidelines for policy and clarifies target groups for preventive programs. Moreover, it adds to the prevention of further deterioration of well-being among adolescents in the Netherlands.