The relationship between body mass index and types of peer bullying in primary school students: Rising risk in cyberbullying

Abstract

Introduction – Childhood obesity and peer bullying are significant psychosocial challenges in primary education. This study investigated the predictive effect of Body Mass Index (BMI) categories on various types of peer bullying victimization among primary school students. Methods – Using a correlational screening model, data were collected from 579 students (Grades 1–4) in Bartin, Türkiye, during the 2025–2026 academic year. Instruments included a six-item peer bullying questionnaire and standardized physical measurements. BMI was categorized according to WHO (2007) references. Overweight and obese groups were merged for comparison against the normal-weight group. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, binary logistic regression, and Pearson/Spearman correlations. Results – While BMI category did not significantly predict general victimization, cyberbullying emerged as a consistent exception. In the unadjusted logistic regression, overweight/obese students were 1.83 times more likely to experience cyberbullying [OR = 1.83, 95% CI (1.008, 3.328), p = 0.047]; a permutation test confirmed this was unlikely to reflect chance (pperm = 0.032). When adjusted for gender and grade, this association showed borderline significance (OR = 1.77, p = 0.064). Correlation analyses confirmed a positive relationship between continuous BMI and cyberbullying (ρ = 0.092, p = 0.027). Discussion – Higher BMI is more closely associated with cyber victimization than physical or social bullying. Overweight children may face increased digital risks due to social withdrawal. Prevention programs should address the “invisibility” of cyberbullying and encourage the broader school community—including teachers—to avoid stigmatizing language and behaviors.