Violence related behavior and risk factors for physical fighting among Thai youth

Abstract

Background: Youth violence is an important national and public health concern worldwide. Young perpetrators of violence may have their lives destroyed and wasted in the criminal justice system. Objective: The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence of violence related behavior and to identify the risk factors for physical fight among Thai youth. Material and Method: A population based, nationally representative, cross-sectional survey was conducted in Thailand in early 2013, with 920 respondents aged between 13 to 24 years. The Thai version of the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System questionnaire from 3 categories, including unintentional injuries and violence, alcohol consumption, and sexual behavior, was used. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage and Odds Ratio. Results: The highest prevalence of violence related behaviors was during the middle and late adolescent period but the prevalence of violence on school property was highest during the early and middle adolescent period. The prevalence of violence related behaviors were higher in males, non-students, and southern region groups. The highest adjusted ORs of physical fighting was carrying a weapon (OR = 11.16, 95% CI = 6.54 to 19.04). Conclusion: The prevalence of youth violence related behaviors emerged more in males, non-students and southern region groups. The chance of participating in physical fights increased significantly when youths showed other violence-related behaviors. Prevention programs should focus more on high risk groups and high risk behaviors. © 2017 Medical Association of Thailand. All rights reserved.