BULLYING AS PREDICTORS OF TRAUMA AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

This study investigated bullying as a predictor of psychological trauma among undergraduates at the University of Benin, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from a sample of 79 students using a structured questionnaire titled "Bullying and Trauma Experience Questionnaire (BTEQ)." The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) to answer the research questions. The findings revealed a strong consensus that bullying is a significant predictor of trauma among undergraduates, manifesting as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychological stress, and negative impacts on academic engagement. Furthermore, the study established that the relationship between bullying and trauma is moderated by key demographic variables. Specifically, the analysis indicated that female students, younger undergraduates, and students at certain academic levels were more vulnerable to the traumatic effects of bullying. The study concluded that bullying is a potent precursor to psychological trauma within the university environment. It therefore recommends that the university administration should develop and enforce a comprehensive anti- bullying policy, university counsellors should adopt trauma-informed care practices, and educators should integrate preventive education into orientation programs. These measures are essential to mitigate the negative effects of bullying and foster a safer, more supportive academic community.