The Art of Bullying
By: Rhencis Clouie Mae E. Velasco
A school’s mission is to give every child a place where they can learn in a
child-friendly, gender-sensitive, safe, and motivating environment. Studies also shows
that students thrive in such environment. However, an issue arises when students
exhibit behaviors that are pretty aggressive and intentionally causes harm, discomfort
or injury to another person. Bullying can take in the form of physical contact, words
or more subtle actions. The perpetrator can be anyone and the victims- more common
than not-are silent about it.
Research indicates that there is an increase of school bullying. The art of bulling
stems from varied causes. One is that the perpetrator experienced bullying themselves.
They lacked empathy as a result of what happened to them. They don’t realize the
gravity of their actions for they too are victims themselves. Another cause of bullying
is that bullies seek social attention for they are lonely. They lack attention at home nor
have real friends so they seek attention in any way they can, regardless of
consequences. Frustration and envy is another cause of bullying. Perpetrators have
such negative emotions and couldn’t handle them which results to poor management
of behavior. Victims of bullying can have detrimental effects as a result. They can
develop anxiety, depression and eating disorder to name a few.
To navigate a challenging environment, the school administration or even teachers
need to be proactive in fighting against the rising cases of bullying. If a student shows
signs of distress, has poor academic performance or often misses classes then such
student should be observed. He or she might be a victim of bullying. Teachers, parents
and the school administration should not be lenient to bullies. If a bully is identified,
such person should be suspended or the school should take measures to rehabilitate
the student to stop he or she from showing aggressive behavior. Victims should also
have post-bulling care and guidance. A school is a beacon of light to the uncertainties
of the future. We are bound to protect its integrity to keep it a safe place for students
to grow and thrive.