THE RATE OF BULLYING INCIDENTS AND RELATED FACTORS AMONG HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THE CONTINUING EDUCATION SYSTEM IN HO CHI MINH CITY, 2024

Abstract

Background: Bullying is a pressing issue in society and education environment, with significant short-term and long-term impacts on adolescents' physical and mental health. However, research on this issue among high school students in Ho Chi Minh City, especially in continuing education system is in short supply.

Objective: This study aims to describe the prevalence of bullying and its associated factors among high school students in the continuing education system in Ho Chi Minh City in 2024.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from February to April 2024 on 1499 high school students from continuing education centers in District 12, Tan Phu, Binh Chanh and Hoc Mon. The study used a self-administered questionnaire. Bullying was defined by the YRBS.

Results: We found that 6.8% of students experienced school bullying and 13.8% experienced cyberbullying. School bullying was associated with sexual orientation, family economic status, peer relationships. Cyberbullying was associated with grade, gender, sexual orientation, family economic status, peer relationships.

Conclusion: Bullying is a preventable public health problem. School systems, educators, families, and stakeholders need suitable strategies and interventions regarding this issue, particularly for at-risk students.

Keywords: school bullying, electronic bullying, adolescents, high school