An Exploration of the Link Between Bullying Perpetration and Substance Use: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Bullying and substance use are serious public health concerns. The aim of this article is to review empirical studies that examined the association between bullying perpetration and substance use among adolescence in various countries. Research studies that found a correlation between bullying perpetration and substance use in children and adolescents were reviewed. From the search, 7,844 abstracts were identified and 7,795 were excluded. Fifty-four remaining articles were reviewed, and 23 were excluded after full text review. A total of 31 articles, which all met the inclusion criteria, were considered in the review. Findings from the review suggest that children who engaged in bullying are more likely to be involved in alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use. Substance use prevention efforts require an examination of peer dynamics and peer relationships. In addition, bullying and substance use prevention require family dynamics and how they may increase the risk of bullying and drugs abuse.