Examining the interplay of childhood abuse, bullying, and bullying victimization in middle school students: a serial mediation analysis

Summary

Introduction: Childhood abuse and bullying are youth problem worldwide, yet the detrimental effects of child abuse is underestimated in China. The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between child abuse and bullying and victimization, and to explore the mediating roles of self-esteem, peer relationships, and moral disengagement in the chain between childhood abuse, school bullying, and victimization among junior high school. Methods: This study included 1,327 adolescents (52.3% girls, 47.3% boys) from public schools in Sichuan Province, China. We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire survey using the Child Trauma Scale-Short Form, Bullying Participatory Behavior Questionnaire, Self-Esteem Scale, Peer Relationships Scale, and the Moral Disengagement Questionnaire. The boots