Children who have limited time with their fathers may become bullies, study says

By Staff Writer

A researcher from Vanderbilt University has determined that the amount of time children spend with their father can contribute to bullying behavior.

Andre Christie-Mizell, whose study appears in the journal Youth and Society, examined the link between the number of hours parents work and adolescent bullying behavior. In addition, he analyzed the relationship between bullying behavior and youth's perceptions about the amount of time they spend with their parents.

Christie-Mizell studied the behavior and perceptions of 687 children who were between the ages of 10 and 14 years old and who lived in two-parent homes. While mothers' work hours had little effect on their children's actions, he found that fathers who worked full-time or overtime resulted in children reporting that they did not spend enough time with their fathers. These kids were more likely to exhibit bullying behavior.

Fathers who work frequently should make an extra effort to spend time with their kids, Christie-Mizell suggested.

Problem teens who bully their siblings or peers could benefit from tough love. Parents may consider taking away certain privileges if kids misbehave.