Violent behavior in primary education: Evolution from 9 to 12 years old as a function of gender

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to establish the frequency of violent behaviors present in primary education (PE), to determine differences based on students' grade and gender, and to assess the evolution of behaviors between the fourth and sixth grades of PE. The research design was a cohort longitudinal ex post facto study with three measures. Data was collected at three different moments across fourth, fifth, and sixth grades of PE. The sample was composed of all the students of three public centers located in three localities of Autonomous Community of Navarra (Northern Spain). The centers had to present similar characteristics to each other and to the population of Navarra. The first three centers contacted agreed to participate. The sample was composed of 236 students (110 girls) in PE. Students completed the instrument School Violence Questionnaire-Revised. A descriptive analysis, a bivariate analysis, and a logistic regression model were performed. A gradual increase in the perception of different violent behaviors with differences between boys and girls was found. In fourth grade, there was hardly any perception of information and communication technology-related violence; it then increased until sixth grade. Boys perceived more violence from teachers toward students and among peers. Girls perceived more violent behavior between fourth and fifth grade. Preventive interventions targeting digital violence should be developed at this stage. Considering the differences found according to gender and age, it is highlighted the need to train the educative community in different areas, such as emotional competencies, school coexistence, and the detection and prevention of violent behavior.