A multi-informant study of peer victimization, children's mental health, and academic achievement: The moderating role of family functioning

Abstract

In the present study parent and child concordance of peer victimization and associations with mental health (depression and anxiety), academic achievement, and family functioning was assessed using a multi-informant, multi-method approach. Parents and children completed assessments of peer victimization and mental health, parents completed a measure of family functioning, and grades were assessed by teachers. Children were classified into three peer victimization status groups and one non-victimization group on the basis of concordance of parent and child reports. Results indicate that children rated as victims by any informant (parent or self) scored higher on depression and anxiety and lower academic achievement than non-victims. Although differences in family functioning were not found between each of the victim and non-victim groups, family functioning moderated the association between peer victimization and mental health for boys. For boys who self-reported victimization but parents did not, a high functioning family environment was associated with lower depression and anxiety. Results highlight the need for greater home school communication about peer victimization and for schools to educate parents about ways to talk to children about bullying.