Abstract

Anti-social behavior (ASB) among university students, particularly in hostel settings, is a growing concern worldwide, impacting the overall well-being and academic performance of students. This research investigates the perceptions and practices of ASB among university hostel students at Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan. The primary objectives are to (i) assess the prevalence of ASB, specifically focusing on aggression, bullying, violence within peer relations, and harassment; (ii) gauge the students' perceptions of the prevalence of ASB; and (iii) explore the relationship between the hostel environment, peer relations, and ASB. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 188 male hostel students, selected through proportionate random sampling from all male hostels at the University of the Punjab. Participants included both Bachelor’s and Master’s program students, chosen using the Taro Yamane (1976) formula. Data was collected using standardized questionnaires from various established tools. The study sample (N=188) consisted of 48.4% individuals aged 18-22 years and 51.6% aged 23-26 years. Regarding hostel environment satisfaction, 43.1% of respondents were satisfied with hostel management, 52.1% with self-dependency, and 45.7% with the calm and peaceful environment. However, dissatisfaction was noted with common bathrooms (25.0%) and restrictions (35.1%). Antisocial behaviors were prevalent, with 50.0% reporting joking about others, 61.2% engaging in teasing to make others angry, and 65.4% experiencing the spreading of rumors. Significant associations were found between hostel environment satisfaction and reduced exposure to violence (p=0.000), bullying (p=0.000), and harassment (p=0.154), but not with aggression (p=0.185). The study suggests that university and hostel administrations implement measures to reduce ASB by improving the hostel environment and fostering positive peer relations. Further research is recommended to develop more specific interventions and preventive strategies to mitigate ASB in university hostels.