2015 Volume 26 Issue 1 Pages 13-22
Although previous studies in Japan have reported on the prevalence of bullying behaviors and peer victimization, little is known about the severity of internalizing and externalizing problems exhibited by students in Japan. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationships of bullying and/or victimization with internalizing and externalizing problems. Students (N＝4,936, grades 4–9) completed a series of self-report questionnaires that assessed bullying behaviors, victimization, depression, self-harm, aggression, and delinquency. In addition, class teachers rated students' absenteeism, i.e., how many days students were absent during the previous spring term. The results indicated that about 10% of the students had experienced bullying or victimization more than once a week. Rational and verbal bullying reportedly occurred more frequently than other types of bullying. Compared to students who were not involved with bullying and victimization, victimized students more frequently reported elevated depression and self-harm. Furthermore, it was shown that students who bullied peers self-reported more aggression, and delinquent behavior was indicated by a higher percentage of those who had experienced both bullying of other students and peer victimization.
