mental health consequences. This systematic review aims to synthesise the existing literature

on adolescent bullying in Nigeria, highlighting its prevalence, kinds, risk factors, and

consequences. Following the guidelines set forth by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) for systematic

literature reviews, a comprehensive search was conducted across PsychINFO, MEDLINE,

ERIC, Web of Science, and PubMed.

The search parameters included “bullying,” “peer

victimisation,” “school harassment,” “ragging,” and “Nigeria.” Studies were included if

they focused on adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in Nigerian school settings and contained

quantifiable data on bullying. Research solely focused on cyberbullying was excluded. Thirtythree

studies published between 2010 and 2024 met the inclusion criteria.

Information was

acquired concerning study design, sample size, geographical location, types of bullying, and

key findings. The 33 selected studies employed various research approaches, primarily crosssectional

(n=21), in addition to some longitudinal (n=4) and experimental designs (n=8).

Sampling strategies included random (n=13), convenience (n=11), and selective sampling

(n=9). The prevalence of bullying ranged from 10% to 40%, with increased rates noted in

urban areas.

Bullying manifests in physical, verbal, relational, and occasionally cyber forms,

with physical and verbal bullying being the most common. Risk factors included socio-economic

status, single-parent households, peer influence, and cultural values that prioritise seniority

and authority. Victims exhibited heightened anxiety and sadness, coupled with reduced selfesteem,

whereas perpetrators manifested persistent behavioural issues.

Addressing bullying

in Nigerian schools requires comprehensive solutions, including legislative reforms, supportive

measures, and targeted research to inform successful prevention and intervention strategies.

Future research should emphasise longitudinal studies and the validation of assessment tools

for the Nigerian context.