Examination of the relationship between sibling and peer victimization and subsequent predicition of PTSD symptomology

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: The present study investigated the prevalence of sibling and peer victimization, the relationship between them and their relationship to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptomology. Gender and birth order were also examined with regard to sibling victimization and peer victimization. Data was collected utilizing self-report methodology from 10-14 year old students in two rural middle schools in Texas and Oklahoma.

Findings and Conclusions: Results of this study indicate prevalence rates for sibling victimization and peer victimization to be in the 16-20% range. Secondly, significant results were found for gender on both peer victimization and sibling victimization. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between sibling victimization and peer victimization, as well as with subsequent PTSD symptomology. The current study both extends the current literature that examines sibling and peer victimization as well as contributes important findings regarding the relationship between sibling and peer victimization and the subsequent occurrence of PTSD symptomology within these victims. This is of great importance for schools and those practitioners who are working with victims of bullying. Bullying/victimization is a pervasive problem within schools throughout the world, and research conducted in this area is vital so that appropriate prevention and intervention programs can be both developed and implemented effectively, so that all students are able to develop socially and emotionally, devoid of the threat of victimization.