PHYSICAL FIGHTING IN PORTUGUESE SCHOOLS: RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR ADOLESCENT WELL-BEING

Authors: Marta Reis*; Catarina Noronha; Gina Tomé, Marina Carvalho, Nuno Neto Rodrigues & Margarida Gaspar De Matos

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Physical fighting among adolescents remains a public health concern, impacting academic achievement, psychosocial development, and school climate. This study aims to characterize the involvement in school fights among Portuguese students, identifying risk and protective factors to inform strategies for prevention and intervention.

Methods: Based on the 2024 national study of the Psychological Health and Well-Being Observatory, a total of 3,083 students from lower and upper secondary schools in Portugal participated. Sociodemographic data, psychological symptoms, socio-emotional skills (SSES), perceived well-being, and school environment variables were assessed. Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests and linear regression.

Results: About 17.1% of students reported involvement in physical fights, with boys and younger students (5th–7th grade) more frequently involved. Protective factors included emotional control, self-control, cooperation, creativity, positive relationships with teachers, and perceived well-being. Bullying emerged as a major risk factor. Regression analysis identified gender, school grade, bullying, and several socio-emotional skills as significant predictors, explaining 25.5% of the variance.

Conclusions: A multifactorial approach is essential in addressing physical fighting in schools. Strategies should target individual regulation skills, social relationships, and systemic supports in the educational context.

Keywords: school violence, physical fighting, adolescents, socio-emotional skills, bullying, well-being, youth development

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