Relationship between teacher-student relationship and peer victimization: a multiple mediator model

Introduction: Growing evidences reveal intimate links between teacher-student relationship (TSR) and peer victimization, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: This study examined these associations using data from 65,868 fourth graders (9.56 ± 0.62, 53.60% males) through a multiple mediator model. All participants completed four questionnaires. Results: This study revealed that TSR was associated with peer victimization exclusively via indirect pathways (the direct effect was non-significant), with three significant mediators: (1) peer relationship (standardized indirect effect = -0.135); (2) depression (-0.040); and (3) the sequential pathway through peer relationship and depression (-0.070). Peer relationship demonstrated the strongest mediating effect and preceded emotion factors, indicating that peer relationship as spillover of skills or behavioral pattern may have more stable and lasting impact on peer victimization than emotion spillover. Conclusion: These findings suggest that peer victimization is fundamentally connected to peer relationship quality, highlighting the need for relationship-centered interventions. The earlier the intervention for peer victimization occurs, the more effective it is, particularly during the critical period when self-esteem are forming.