Family Dynamics Related to Bullying and Victimisation

抄録

　　A large number of studies implicate familial factors in the prediction of bullying, aggressive or externalising behaviour in children. Some other risk factors predict risk of victimisation and internalising behaviours. In this review I distinguish seven main theoretical approaches: Social learning theory; Parenting styles; Attachment theory; Family relationship schemas; Shame management theory; Cognitive contextual theory; and Family systems theory. I review a number of empirical studies, broadly grouped within these different perspectives. The most widely established risk factors are (1) family conflicts in general (parents and siblings) and how they are dealt with; (2) poor parental discipline strategies, especially if harsh or abusive, and inconsistent (too lax, too coercive); (3) negative parentchild relations: including insecure attachment, and stigmatising shaming; and (4) the mother being chronically depressed. These familial factors can interact with genetic factors, child temperament, and gender (although many gender differences are small); there is little information on possible interactions with child age, or ethnicity. Some practical implications of the research for helping families and schools are considered at the end of the chapter.

　Better ‘article’ than ‘chapter’.