Peer learning can modify the reciprocal relationship between peer support and victimization in middle school.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

This research investigated how peer victimization and support are reciprocally related and how Cooperative Learning (CL) can reverse the progressive cascade that, unchecked, can culminate in youth mental health problems.

Methods

The sample (N = 1890; 53% male) was derived from a randomized trial of CL in 15 middle schools in the United States. Students were recruited in the 7th grade. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to fit our cross-lag difference score model across four waves of data.

Results

The results indicated a reciprocal relationship between peer support and victimization across time, suggesting the potential for negative experiences with peers to become amplified over time in a "vicious cycle," negatively impacting mental health. Stude

SUBMITTER: Low S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10079556 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature