NCJ Number
244799
Journal
Journal of Youth and Adolescence Volume: 43 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2014 Pages: 221-232
Date Published
February 2014
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study examines a understanding of the mechanisms that link bullying and suicidal ideation is needed in order to develop effective prevention and intervention initiatives.
Abstract
Adolescent bullying is a common problem in schools across America. The consequences of bullying are significant, and can include severe psychological trauma and suicide. A better understanding of the mechanisms that link bullying and suicidal ideation is needed in order to develop effective prevention and intervention initiatives. Meaning in life is a potential mechanism that has not been studied in this context. It was hypothesized that meaning in life could serve as both a mediator and a moderator of the relationship between bullying victimization and suicidal ideation. As a mediator, meaning in life is considered to explain why bullying victimization leads to suicidal ideation. As a moderator, meaning in life is considered to buffer the ill effect of bullying victimization on suicidal ideation. Data collected from an ethnically diverse sample of 2,936 (50 percent female), 6th-12th grade students from 1 urban school district in the Northeastern United States were used to examine the hypotheses. The model for girls was consistent with mediation (i.e., meaning in life may explain how victimization leads to suicidal ideation). The model for boys was consistent with moderation (i.e., the ill effect of victimization on suicidal ideation was attenuated as meaning in life increased). Implications for prevention are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Springer.