School teachers bullied by their students: Teachers' attributions and how they share their experiences

Previous studies suggest that many teachers worldwide are bullied by students. However, deeper understanding of teachers' bullying experiences; of their interpretations of the causes of bullying; and of how they cope with these experiences, is lacking. Using an Internet survey we examined the attributions made by Finnish elementary and lower secondary school teachers for their victimisation; the people with whom they share their experiences; and the links between these. Three kinds of attribution were identified: student-related, institution-related, and teacher-related. Selection of the persons with whom teachers shared their experiences was determined by the nature of the attributions given for victimisation.

► Previous studies have shown that many teachers are bullied by their students.
► The present study examines attributions made by teachers for their victimisation.
► Three kinds of attribution were identified.
► In addition, the persons with whom teachers shared their experiences were detected.