Physical Fitness Predicts Bullying Victimization for Boys but Not for Girls: A Two-Wave Follow-Up Study

Abstract

Introduction

Bullying victimization profoundly impacts the psychological and physical well-being of adolescents. There is limited research on the specific role of physical fitness in bullying victimization, and existing studies often overlook sex differences in these dynamics. This study investigates the relationship between sprint performance and bullying victimization among adolescents, emphasizing the moderating role of sex through the lens of Target Congruence Theory (TCT). The research aims to fill these gaps by providing empirical evidence on how physical fitness and sex interact to influence bullying victimization, offering new insights for targeted interventions.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 576 high school students from a martial arts middle school in China, recruited between March 21 and April 21, 2023 (Wave 1), with a follow-up survey conducted from October 14 to November 14, 2023 (Wave 2), resulting in a final matched sample of 410 students after accounting for attrition and missing data. Bullying victimization was assessed using the Illinois Victimization Scale, and physical fitness was measured through sprint times. The research employed OLS regression analysis and slope tests to explore the interactions between sex and sprint performance on various forms of bullying victimization.

Results

Longer sprint times were significantly associated with higher levels of overall bullying victimization, peer ridicule, and physical altercations. However, there was no significant association between sprint time and other forms of bullying victimization, such as general peer victimization and name-calling. Significant interactions between sex and sprint times for overall bullying victimization, peer ridicule, and physical altercations suggest that boys with slower sprint times faced higher levels of bullying victimization. In contrast, there were no significant differences in bullying victimization based on sprint times for girls.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for sex-specific anti-bullying interventions. For boys, enhancing physical fitness, particularly speed, could reduce their vulnerability to bullying. For girls, interventions should focus on social dynamics, communication skills, and emotional resilience. By addressing the unique factors that influence bullying for boys and girls, schools can develop more effective strategies to reduce victimization and promote safer, more inclusive environments.