Does Peer Support Impact The Association Between Low Family Affluence and Bullying Victimization?

Abstract

Bullying in adolescents has broad-ranging effects; previous research shows that adolescents in low-income families are more likely to be bullied. Based on the idea that peer support can be a buffer for bullying, this study aims to assess the moderating role of peer support in the relationship between low family affluence and bullying victimization in adolescents. Recognizing the importance of social networks in adolescents' lives becomes crucial, as peer relationships play a protective role against antisocial behaviours, contributing to emotional and instrumental support. A cross-sectional, nationally representative sample was used, including 7258 participants (11-16 years) from the 2021 Dutch Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Data collection involved the administration of self-completion questionnaires during school hours. First, a binary logistic regression analysis was performed to assess whether low family affluence increases the chances of bullying victimization. In exploring the potential impact of peer support on this relationship, the variable “peer support” and the interaction term “peer support x low family affluence scale” were added. The results revealed that low family affluence did not significantly increase the likelihood of bullying victimization among adolescents. Peer support did not exhibit a moderating effect on the relationship between low family affluence and bullying victimization.