Prevalence, Causes and Effects of Bullying in Tertiary Institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research is an evaluation of the impact of causes, consequences and effects of bullying in academic setting on student academic performance in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria.  The research made use of purposive and random sampling techniques made up of 302 students. Questionnaire served as the data collection instrument. The results obtained from the coded and analyzed data showed that vocal assaults (Mean = 4.0530) were the common forms of bullying in the tertiary institutions. Family, personality and school related factors were all determinants of bullying behaviors. Findings also revealed that the major effects of bullying were destruction of lives and properties, inability to fulfill destinies and family instability, breed social maladjustments, engender low self-esteem for victims, is stressful for both perpetuators and their victims and has brought about poor health status for victims generally. Bullying was also found to have negative effects on students’ academic performance and this was found to be significant at 0.05 percent. The study was concluded based on recommendations.

Keywords: Bullying, tertiary, institutions, cross river state, effects