The association between self-esteem and physical aggression in elementary school students in Türkiye: the role of being a victim as mediator

Abstract Childhood and early adolescence play a crucial role in shaping individuals’ attitudes and behaviours through the cultivation of self-esteem. While this dynamic may differ among various age groups, self-esteem is anticipated to serve as a protective factor against peer bullying and aggression, particularly within the school setting. The present study aimed to explore the associations between self-esteem, experiences of victimisation, and engagement in physical aggression. This research, structured as a cross-sectional quantitative inquiry, involved administering an online survey to 445 primary and middle school students in Türkiye. Descriptive and correlation analysis was performed with the SPSS 22.0 program, and mediation analysis was performed with the IBM AMOS 24 program. Being a victim was found to have a mediating effect on the relationship between self-esteem and physical aggression. Self-esteem reduces physical aggression by reducing being a victim. In this context, educators and policymakers need to focus their efforts to increase self-esteem while developing programs to prevent peer bullying and aggression in schools.