Abstract: Adolescent aggression in school settings is embedded in close social relationships, particularly family and peer contexts. This study examined associations between family bonding, deviant peer affiliation, and aggression-related outcomes among high school students in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, and considered directions for school social work practice. A mixed-methods design was employed, with quantitative data from 127 students in Grades 10-12 supplemented by five in-depth interviews and one focus group involving six students. Family bonding was examined through emotional attachment, commitment to family life, involvement in family activities, and belief in family norms, while aggression-related outcomes were organized into aggressive attitudes, aggression-related emotional responses, and aggressive behaviors. Multivariable regression results indicated that stronger emotional attachment was associated with lower aggressive attitudes and emotional responses, whereas stronger family commitment was associated with lower aggressive attitudes and behaviors. Belief in family norms was negatively associated with aggressive behavior. Deviant peer affiliation was the only factor consistently and positively associated with all three aggression-related outcomes. Having a family member with deviant behavior and economic disadvantage were additionally associated with aggressive behavior. The findings suggest that family bonding is multidimensional rather than uniformly protective and that peer contexts should be considered alongside family relationships. School social work responses should therefore combine family-focused assessment, positive peer-network interventions, and coordinated case management for students experiencing multiple risks.
Keywords: family bonding; deviant peer affiliation; adolescent aggression; high school students; school social work.
Title: Family Bonding, Deviant Peer Affiliation and Aggression among High School Students in Quang Ninh Province: Directions for School Social Work
Author: Đỗ Nghiêm Thanh Phương, Bùi Thị Khánh
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 248-256
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 29-August-2026
