When threats alone do not stop bullies
IF one were to analyse the problem of bullying in schools, one would realise that it is related to behaviour problems (ill-discipline or no discipline at all) among the bullies.
Instilling discipline in children should start at home. Unfortunately, this is not being done in most homes now because both parents are too busy working to make ends meet.
Hence, children are being brought up by the maid or servant who is in no position to instil discipline.
To compound the problem, many school authorities are also reluctant to take stern action against bullies, fearing negative repercussions from overbearing parents who might be feeling guilty about the behaviour of their chil- dren. As a result, the bullies become more daring and aggressive.
In my childhood days, one parent was always at home to look after and control the children. Any complaint by a child that he or she had been punished by the teacher would result in the child enduring further punishment from the parents. Teachers were always right back then.
These days, threats of punishment do not even frighten the bullies enough to make them rethink their bad behaviour, let alone stop their bullying activities. Lack of action by the school authorities or support from their guilt-laden parents could be the reason for why they continue their bullying acts.
If society is seriously interested in stopping bullying in schools, firstly, parents must stop attacking the school authorities for punishing their ill-disciplined children.
Secondly, the police must step in to put the fear of punishment for bullying among students by giving regular talks at school assemblies.
Thirdly, a police liaison officer should be stationed at every school to take action on the bullies and also help teachers who are threatened.
When threats of punishment fail to deter bullies, physical action like dismissal from school or incarceration should be taken. This is the only way to make them change their ways for the better.
DATUK KHOO AH SEE Shah Alam