3215.0: Monday, October 22, 2001 - Board 9

Abstract #29070

School climate, bullying, and emotional health among adolescents in South Africa

Khalipha M Bility, PhD, The Pennsylvania State University, University Office of International Programs, 222 Boucke Building, University Park, PA 16802, 814-865-2590, kmb17@psu.edu, Alan J Flisher, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Louis A Johnson, MSc, Penn State, and M. Muganwa, MBChB, Institute of Public Health, Mekerere University, Uganda.

Abstract: Researches using data from the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SCENDU): School Survey examined the relationship between bullying, school climate, and select risk behavioral factors among adolescents in several high schools on Cape Town, South Africa. Using cross-sectional data collected from 3000 students enrolled in 39 high schools, this study indicates a positive relationship between school climate and bullying: bullying is more frequent among schools with poorer school climates. The main implication of this finding is that improving school climate can contribute to better relationships between teachers and students. Congenial types of relationships create an environment that makes it difficult for bullying and other types of aggressive behaviors to flourish.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Recognize the increasing complexity of the impact of high school students.
  2. Idenitfy the conditions that nurture and contribute to bullying in schools.
  3. Outline possible interventions that may help prevent bullying in schools.

Keywords: Adolescent Health, Violence

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA