Published
April 25, 2026
| Pages: 477-490 | Views: 118
Abstract
This study investigated how individual and contextual classroom factors contribute to bullying perpetration and victimization among Slovenian primary school students. While most research focuses on adolescence, this study targeted 4th and 5th-grade students to explore predictors during a critical transitional period. A total of 1,303 students (aged 9–11) participated in the study. Using self-report measures, we assessed peer relationships (PR), teacher–student relationship (TSR) closeness and conflict, classroom belonging, and experiences of bullying. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the associations between these variables. Results showed that lower classroom belonging, more conflictual TSR, and poorer PR were associated with higher victimization. Bullying perpetration was predicted by lower TSR closeness, higher TSR conflict, and poorer PR. Notably, classroom belonging was associated with victimization but not perpetration, suggesting that the pathways to these roles may differ. Gender differences were also observed, with boys reporting higher involvement in both perpetration and victimization. These findings support the importance of classroom relationships in bullying prevention. Peer and teacher–student dynamics shape students’ social experiences and may reinforce or buffer bullying involvement. The results highlight the need for interventions that strengthen supportive peer interactions, enhance teacher–student closeness, and reduce conflict. Fostering a sense of classroom belonging may also serve as a protective factor, particularly for victims. The study contributes to the understanding of bullying during late childhood and offers evidence for early, relationship-centered prevention strategies.
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Keywords
bullying, victimization, peer relationships, teacher-student relationships, school belonging, early adolescence
Affiliations
Tina Pirc
Department of psychology, Faculty of Arts, Ljubljana
Anja Marinšek
University Medical Centre Ljubljana
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How to Cite
Pirc, T., & Marinšek, A. (2026). Supportive Classroom Relationships as Protective Factors Against Bullying Among Slovenian Primary School Students. International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, 18(3), 477–490. Retrieved from https://iejee.com/index.php/IEJEE/article/view/2541
Author Biography
Tina Pirc
Tina Pirc is an assistant professor at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana. She conducts research on psychosocial relationships in the classroom, peer bullying, career orientation in primary and secondary education, and self-regulatory processes in learning.
Anja Marinšek
Anja Marinšek holds a master’s degree in psychology, having successfully defended her thesis focused on discerning predictors influencing students' sense of class belonging. She earned this degree from the Faculty of Arts at the University of Ljubljana. Presently, she is active as a health psychologist at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana.