The relationship between perceived school climate and the prevalence of bullying behavior in Greek schools: implications for preventive inclusive strategies

Abstract

The present study concerns the possible relationships between the perceived school climate and the prevalence of bullying behaviors in a sample of 369 primary school pupils. In addition, it aimed at examining the possible mediating role of engaging in risky behaviors in this relationship. All participants completed the Peer Experiences Questionnaire – PEQ, the School Climate Scale and the Risky Behavior Scale. It was found that negative perceptions of their school climate as well as involvement in risky behaviors predicted bullying behaviors towards their peers and that involvement in risky behaviors mediated this relationship.