Citation

Mumford EA, Okamoto J, Taylor BG, Stein ND. Am. J. Health Behav. 2013; 37(6): 769-779.

Affiliation

University of Chicago, Department of Substance Use, Mental Health and Criminal Justice Studies, Bethesda, USA. mumford-elizabeth@norc.org.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, PNG Publications)

DOI

10.5993/AJHB.37.6.6

PMID

24001626

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To pilot a study of social networks informing contextual analyses of sexual harassment and peer violence (SH/PV).

METHODS: Seventh and 8(th) grade students (N = 113) in an urban middle school were surveyed via a Web-based instrument.

RESULTS: Boys and girls reported SH/PV victimization and perpetration at comparable rates. The proportion of nominated friends who reported SH/ PV outcomes was greater in boys' than in girls' social networks. Structural descriptors of social networks were not significant predictors of SH/PV outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Collection of sensitive relationship data via a school-based Web survey is feasible. Full-scale studies and greater flexibility regarding the number of friendship nominations are recommended for subsequent investigations of potential sex differences.

Language: en